Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs in two main forms: dry (atrophic) and wet (neovascular). Both affect the macula and central vision but differ in how they damage the retina and how quickly they progress.
Dry (Atrophic) AMD
Dry AMD involves gradual thinning of the light-sensitive cells and supporting tissue in the macula, often with deposits called drusen. Vision typically declines slowly over years.
- More common than wet AMD
- Often causes mild to moderate central blurring or difficulty reading
- No leakage of new blood vessels
- Managed with lifestyle measures, monitoring, and sometimes nutritional supplements
Wet (Neovascular) AMD
Wet AMD develops when abnormal, leaky blood vessels grow under the macula, causing rapid distortion and central vision loss. Without treatment, damage can occur over weeks or months.
- Less common but responsible for most severe AMD-related sight loss
- Symptoms include sudden distortion, wavy lines, or dark central patches
- Treated urgently with intravitreal anti-VEGF injections to control leakage
- Regular injections and scans are often needed to maintain vision
