Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Excerpt

The retina is a layer of neurosensory tissue in the eye that converts light into neural signals, which the brain interprets as images. The macula is the part of the retina with the highest concentration of cones essential for central vision. Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), also known as exudative or neovascular AMD, primarily affects the macula and is the most common cause of central visual impairment and blindness among older individuals in developed countries.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drives the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV), where new vessels grow under or through the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), often through breaks in the Bruch membrane. (see Image. Peripapillary Choroidal Neovascular Membrane). Regular administration of intravitreal anti-VEGF medications may prevent blindness in most patients with wet AMD. In the absence of such treatment, patients experience severe, irreversible vision loss.