Detecting/Monitoring.

Many people may be unaware that they have macular degeneration because they still have good vision. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that, after age 40, people have a routine screening eye examination every 2 years to check for evidence of glaucoma, cataracts and other age-related eye problems. A dilated fundus examination begins with administering dilating eye drops to open the pupils. This allows the eye doctor to see the retina and look for signs of macular degeneration.

As part of their evaluation, many patients with macular degeneration will undergo a fluorescein angiogram. In this test fluorescein dye is injected into an arm vein. A special type of camera takes photographs that show the blood vessels in the retina in clear detail. Areas of abnormal blood vessel growth (choroidal neovascularization) can be identified. The presence or absence of abnormal blood vessels is much more clearly demonstrated on the angiogram than on the eye exam. That’s why patients often may require repeat angiograms on return visits.

Amsler grid testing allows patients to monitor their vision at home. The Amsler grid is a small grid. One of the first signs of leakage from macular degeneration is that straight lines look bent or distorted. This can be detected by looking at the Amsler grid with one eye at a time. In taking this test, it is important to remember to cover one eye – and look at the grid with only one eye at a time. Otherwise, early changes in one eye may be missed. The good eye can compensate for or mask the distortion in the affected eye. If you would like an Amsler grid please register and provide us your with your full name and mailing address and we will send you a magnetic grid. Or you can download the Amsler grid on this screen.

Patients with macular degeneration should get in the habit of checking a grid daily. The earlier abnormal blood vessel growth can be detected, the better the chances are of successful treatment.