Is it possible to have dry macular degeneration in one eye and exudative AMD in the other?
Hello everyone, how are you? This is Dr. Mário Bulla, and welcome to the "Retina e Vítreo" channel, the most complete space on retina on YouTube. In today's video, we're going to answer a very interesting question from a follower: is it possible to have dry macular degeneration in one eye and exudative in the other? We'll explore this question in detail to clear up any doubts about this eye condition.
What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects the macula, the central area of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. This condition is more common in older people, and its prevalence increases with age. AMD is divided into two main forms: dry and exudative (or wet).
Differences between Dry and Exudative AMD
1. **Dry AMD: This is the most common form, accounting for around 85-90% of cases. It is characterized by the slow and progressive death of cells in the macula, leading to blurred vision and gradual loss of sharpness. Dry AMD is a chronic condition that develops over time.
2. **Exudative AMD: Although less common, it is the most aggressive form of the disease, accounting for around 10-15% of cases. Exudative AMD is characterized by the abnormal growth of blood vessels under the retina, which leak fluid or blood, causing a rapid deterioration in vision. Symptoms can include dark spots in the vision, crooked lines (metamorphopsia) and sudden loss of sharpness.
Diagnosis and tests
To differentiate between the dry and exudative forms of AMD, various ophthalmological tests are used, such as:
Fundus examination**: A clinical examination in which the doctor looks at the retina and macula.
Retinography**: Photograph of the retina for documentation and follow-up.
Fluorescein angiography: A dye is injected into the bloodstream to visualize the retinal vessels.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A high-resolution scan that shows details of the retinal layers, essential for identifying the presence of fluid or neovascular membranes in exudative AMD.
Treatment of exudative AMD
Exudative AMD requires urgent treatment with intravitreal injections of anti-angiogenic drugs, such as Lucentis, Eylia, Vabysmo and Avastin. These drugs help to regress the abnormal vessels, stabilizing and sometimes improving vision.
Is it possible to have dry AMD in one eye and exudative AMD in the other?
Yes, it is possible to have dry AMD in one eye and exudative AMD in the other. In fact, this is not uncommon. The disease usually starts out as dry in both eyes, but one of them can progress to the exudative form. This is because dry AMD is the initial, chronic phase of the disease, while exudative AMD is a more advanced evolution.
It is estimated that around 10-15% of patients with dry AMD develop the exudative form. It is therefore crucial for people with AMD to have regular examinations and monitor any changes in vision.
Importance of Medical Follow-up
If you notice a sudden worsening in your vision, such as dark spots, distortion or loss of sharpness, it is essential to see an ophthalmologist immediately. Early detection and appropriate treatment are essential to prevent the progression of AMD and preserve vision.
This video and its comments are not a substitute for a medical consultation and are for educational purposes only. They should not be used for decision-making purposes, which requires a face-to-face consultation with a specialist doctor.
Author:
Dr. Mário César Bulla
Cremers 28120
Ophthalmologist - Retinologist
www.clinicabulla.com.br
www.especialistaemretina.com.br
Instagram: @retina.bulla
Video URL: • DMRI seca e exsudativa juntas ?
@Retina e Vítreo
#retina
#ophthalmology
0:00 Is it possible to have dry AMD in one eye and exudative AMD in the other?
1:00 What is macular degeneration?
1:30 Difference between dry and exudative AMD.
2:05 How to detect AMD?
3:30 Treatment of AMD.
