Macular degeneration
What is the macula?
The macula is a small, specialised area of the retina — the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye.
It contains cells called photoreceptors that detect light and allow us to see fine details. You can think of the macula like the film in a camera, capturing the image that is then sent to the brain through the optic nerve.
When the macula is damaged, the eye cannot process light properly, and vision becomes distorted or blurred, especially in the centre of your sight.
What is macular degeneration?
Dry (atrophic) macular degeneration
Caused by thinning of the macula over time. The cells of the macula slowly (over years) degenerate and die. The central vision slowly deteriorates. In advanced dry ARMD the central vision can be severely affected.
Wet (neovascular) macular degeneration
Caused by abnormal blood vessels growing under the macula, which leak fluid or blood.
What treatments are available for macular degeneration?
Dry (atrophic) macular degeneration
While there is currently no cure for dry macular degeneration, certain macular vitamins have been shown to reduce the risk of progression to advanced, vision-threatening disease. These vitamins do not restore vision but can help to slow down further damage. Common formulations include: MacuTec, MDEyes, and MacuVision Plus
A new treatment option has also recently become available. Syfovre (pegcetacoplan) is the first approved drug specifically for dry age-related macular degeneration with geographic atrophy. It is given as an injection into the eye at regular intervals and works by slowing down the rate of retinal cell damage. While it does not cure the condition or restore lost vision, it can help preserve sight for longer.
Wet (neovascular) macular degeneration
Wet macular degeneration is treated with anti-VEGF injections (such as Eylea, Lucentis, or Avastin). These medicines block the abnormal blood vessels that cause bleeding and fluid leakage under the retina. Many patients experience stabilisation or even improvement in their vision with this treatment.