Age-related macular degeneration: diagnosis and management

Excerpt

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common form of macular degeneration 3 and is the term given to ageing changes in the eye without any other obvious cause. These 4 changes occur in the central area of the retina (macula). It is a painless eye condition that 5 generally leads to the gradual impairment of vision, but can sometimes cause a rapid 6 reduction in vision. AMD may be an incidental finding on a routine visit to the optometrist or 7 people may present with difficulty in performing daily activities such as driving, reading and 8 recognising faces.

This guideline provides advice on the management of people with AMD, including 6 pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. It also provides guidance on tools 7 available to diagnose and monitor AMD, and what information and support should be 8 provided for people with AMD.