Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Quiz

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that affects the central part of the retina, called the macula. It leads to blurred or distorted central vision, making it difficult to see fine details.

Dry AMD is the most common type, affecting 80% of cases. It occurs when the macula, responsible for sharp central vision, thins with age. Tiny clumps of protein (drusen) form beneath the retina, leading to a slow deterioration of central vision.

The prevalence of AMD refers to the percentage of people in a population who have the disease. It's estimated to be around 8.7% globally, affecting millions of people.

Dry AMD is the most common type and occurs when the macula deteriorates slowly due to the buildup of yellowish deposits called drusen. It progresses gradually.

Wet AMD is less common but more severe than dry AMD. It involves abnormal blood vessels growing under the retina. These leaky vessels can cause bleeding and fluid buildup, ultimately leading to scarring of the macula and rapid vision loss.

Macula thinning is a key characteristic of dry AMD. It occurs with age and makes the macula more susceptible to damage.

Wet AMD is rarer but more severe. It happens when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula, leaking fluid and causing rapid vision loss.

Drusen are tiny yellow deposits that appear under the retina in dry AMD. They contribute to the thinning and deterioration of the macula.

Increased age is the most significant risk factor for AMD. Smoking, uncontrolled hypertension, and high BMI also increase the risk.

Drusen are small, yellowish deposits that accumulate beneath the retina in early AMD. They are a sign of early disease.

Blurred or decreased vision, distortion, and blind spots are common symptoms of AMD. These visual disturbances can impact daily activities.

The macula is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision, color vision, and fine detail perception.

AMD is classified into stages: Early AMD (drusen), Intermediate AMD (larger drusen or pigment changes), and Advanced AMD (wet or dry).

A medical condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina, leading to blurred central vision.

A type of AMD where the macula is damaged by a buildup of deposits called drusen.

A more advanced type of AMD where the macula is significantly damaged, potentially leading to vision loss.

A group of compounds that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

A study designed to assess the effects of a specific intervention, like taking vitamins, on the progression of a disease.

Specific vitamins and minerals that are thought to have antioxidant properties.

A supplement containing a combination of antioxidant vitamins and minerals.

A research study that investigated the impact of specific micronutrients on the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

A group of individuals participating in a research study.

A specific intervention or treatment used in a research study.

A condition which affects the central part of the retina and can lead to blurred vision.

A specific combination of vitamins and minerals that was found to potentially reduce the risk of AMD progression.

A follow-up to the original AREDS study, investigating whether adding lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids could reduce the risk of AMD progression.

A specific combination of nutrients found to be beneficial for AMD, including vitamins C, E, beta-carotene, copper, and zinc.

Modified AREDS 2 formulations, exploring different combinations of vitamins and minerals, particularly removing beta-carotene and reducing the dosage of zinc.

Drugs that prevent the growth of new blood vessels in the eye. They are used to treat wet AMD and other eye conditions.

They are injected directly into the eye, typically every 4 weeks at first, then less often.

Common side effects of VEGF inhibitors include mild eye pain, bleeding under the conjunctiva, and inflammation inside the eye. In rare cases, they can cause retinal detachment.

They have been shown to improve visual acuity, which means better vision, compared to standard care.

They cost a lot! Each injection can cost up to $1500, and they are not covered by provincial drug plans.

AREDS2 with lutein and zeaxanthin is the recommended treatment for AMD in current or former smokers as it reduces the risk of progression and does not contain beta-carotene which is linked to increased risk of lung cancer.

AREDS or AREDS2 supplements do not prevent the initial development of AMD, but they can significantly reduce the risk of the disease progressing from intermediate to advanced stages.

Both AREDS and AREDS2 supplements have no influence on the development or progression of cataracts.

Omega-3 fatty acids have no effect on the onset or progression of AMD. They do not help prevent or slow down the disease.

AREDS2 is at least as effective as AREDS with beta-carotene in reducing the risk of AMD progression, making it the preferred choice due to safety concerns.

Patients already taking regular multivitamins should also consider taking AREDS2 supplements, as they can provide additional beneficial micronutrients.

Taking AREDS2 supplements is recommended for patients with advanced AMD in one eye, as it can help reduce the risk of the other eye becoming affected.

People with intermediate or advanced AMD should consider taking AREDS2 supplements in addition to their regular multivitamins.