Complications of radiotherapy in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A study of 48 cases

Purpose: This study describes the ocular complications after teletherapy in dicated for patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Material and methods: The study concerned 48 patients suffering from an exs udative form of age-related macular degeneration, non suitable for laser ph otocoagulation, and irradiated by high-energy electron beam therapy. Results: With a mean follow-up time of 2 years, late effects were observed in 16(33.3%) patients: 9 (18.75%) radiation optic neuropathies, 9 radiation retinopathies (18.75%) and 2 neovascular glaucomas (4.1%). Conclusion: The frequent and serious complications observed led us to adapt the technique and dose of radiation therapy indicated in patients with age -related macular degeneration.