Age-Related Macular Degeneration - Cause

SYMPTOMS & TREATMENTS

Vision loss from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is caused by damage to the light-detecting nerve cells in the macula. The cause of this damage to the nerve cells is unknown.

Dry AMD

In dry AMD, cells in the macula break down, resulting in vision problems. No one knows why some people get AMD but others do not. In the early stages of dry AMD, a type of debris called drusen, which comes from cells, builds up in the area under and around the macula. When viewed with ophthalmoscopy, which is a way of seeing inside the eye, drusen appear as yellowish white spots under the retina. Although some small drusen can usually be found in the macula as a normal result of aging, the development of numerous large drusen is associated with AMD.2

Wet AMD

Wet AMD is caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula. Experts are studying why this happens. The blood vessels break easily and leak blood and fluid under the macula. The excess blood and fluid, along with abnormal scar tissue that forms under the macula, distort and damage the macula.

Author: Jeannette CurtisLast Updated: August 4, 2009
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, FRCSC - Ophthalmology

1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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