I have been told and have read that there is little that can be done to correct or halt macula degeneration. Is there any technology being tested in this direction. I have heard virtually nothing about to give us who suffer this dysfunction to look forward to.
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Answered by Richard E. Gans, M. D. (xx102@ofcn.org)
It is a disheartening fact that macular degeneration often defies treatment. A large percentage of individuals with this condition will go on to lose central vision. To combat this, there is a considerable amount of research currently underway, directed specifically toward treatment and prevention of the visual loss associated with macular degeneration.
Large, collaborative studies are being conducted in the United States, looking at new methods of laser treatment for ARMD (Age-Related Macular Degeneration). Different types of lasers are being tried in varied techniques. Heroic surgical procedures are being evaluated. New methods of diagnosing ARMD are being investigated. In addition, investigators are looking at environmental and nutritional factors that could be altered to slow the progression or prevent ARMD in the future.
To put this issue into perspective, one must realize that ten years ago, the treatment of ARMD was in its infancy. Very little reliable data was available. Now, data from numerous sources is coalescing so that standards of care can be established. With continuing research, it is fully expected that the percentage of treatment successes will increase in the future.
In the mean time, several issues are clear. Currently, our best chances of treating this disease are when it is caught early in its development. The most effective way to catch it early is by instructing patients in daily, self-testing methods. If self-testing results turn positive, diagnostic testing and therapeutic intervention by an ophthalmologist must be sought out rapidly. Nutritional supplements in recommended doses are unlikely to cause any harm, and may slow disease progression.
These issues address prevention of vision loss. I am sorry to say that once vision has been lost to macular degeneration, little can be done to regain it, at present.
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Copyright, 1994. Richard E. Gans, M.D.
A RICHARD E. GANS, M.D. 11
A A OFCN Primary Sysop, The Eye Clinic 111
AAAAA xx102@ofcn.org 11
A A A C A D E M Y O N E 1111
http://www.ofcn.org:80/about.ofcn/whois/reg/
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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