Age-related macular degeneration: Update for primary care

Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of severe vision loss among the elderly. In this condition, central vision is lost, but peripher al vision almost always remains intact. Affected persons rarely require can es or guide dogs. The diagnosis of age-related macular degeneration is base d on symptoms and ophthalmoscopic findings, and the disease can be classifi ed into atrophic and exudative forms. The two currently proven treatments a re laser photocoagulation and photodynamic therapy, but these measures are effective in only a small fraction of eyes with the exudative form of macul ar degeneration. Vision rehabilitation can help patients maximize their rem aining vision and adapt so that they can perform activities of daily living . Families need encouragement in providing support and helping patients adj ust to being partially sighted.