The macula is located at the center of the retina, where the majority of light-receiving visual cells are concentrated, responsible for the central vision. It accounts for about 90% of vision and plays a crucial role in tasks such as recognizing objects and distinguishing colors. Degeneration of the macula due to aging, genetic factors, hypertension, smoking, etc., can lead to vision impairment, distortion, and the development of a central blind spot. In severe cases, it may result in significant vision loss and even blindness. Macular degeneration—especially in individuals aged 50 and above—is one of the causes of blindness. Therefore, regular eye examinations are necessary to monitor the presence and progression of the condition.
Classification and Symptoms
Depending on the presence of choroidal neovascularization beneath the retina, macular degeneration can be classified into dry (non-exudative) and wet (exudative) forms. Neovascularization can lead to symptoms such as subretinal hemorrhage and subretinal fluid, resulting in vision impairment, distortion, central blind spots, visual field gaps, reduced ability to distinguish objects, and decreased contrast sensitivity.
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- Dry Macular Degeneration
- Dry macular degeneration occurs when yellow fatty deposits called drusen accumulate in the retina, making it difficult for oxygen and nutrients to be supplied properly. This hinders the normal functioning of retinal cells, leading to the formation of a blurred spot in the macula. It is a disease that manifests in approximately 80% of macular degeneration patients and can progress to wet macular degeneration, requiring caution.
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- Wet Macular Degeneration
- Wet macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina grow, leading to bleeding or fluid leakage. While it is observed in only about 20% of all macular degeneration patients, its progression is rapid, and the risk of blindness is higher compared to dry macular degeneration. Immediate treatment is crucial due to the potential severity of the condition.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is conducted through fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence, fluorescein angiography, and optical coherence tomography. For dry macular degeneration, it is crucial to periodically undergo the mentioned examinations and be vigilant about the possibility of transitioning to wet macular degeneration.
Treatment
Dry macular degeneration can be prevented from progressing to the wet form by taking eye supplements such as lutein and undergoing laser treatment to minimize the advancement of the disease.
On the other hand, when wet macular degeneration occurs, it is essential to preserve vision through active treatments such as anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) antibody injections directly into the eye, intravitreal tPA injections, laser treatment, and vitrectomy.
While antibody injections offer the advantage of maintaining or improving vision without surgery, they require repeated treatments at monthly intervals
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Before Treatment
Macular Degeneration with Subretinal Hemorrhage and Subretinal Fluid
- Intravitreal tPA Injection (Antibody Injection)
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After Treatment
Macular Degeneration with Subretinal Hemorrhage and Subretinal Fluid Absorbed
The One Seoul Eye Clinic provides individually optimized treatment based on extensive experience in macular degeneration treatment at Seoul National University Hospital.
Moreover, for those undergoing long-term treatment, the out-of-pocket expenses are significantly reduced compared to general hospitals, allowing for the maintenance of treatment quality while easing economic burdens.
Prevention
It is necessary to wear sunglasses when going out to protect the eyes and to proactively manage cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension.
Additionally, engaging in regular exercise, consuming green and yellow vegetables and fruits, and taking antioxidant supplements are recommended for eye health.
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Wearing sunglasses when going out
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Engaging in regular exercise
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Consuming vegetables and fruits
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Taking antioxidants
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No smoking
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Regularly checking blood pressure
Amsler Grid Test
Macular degeneration is one of the leading causes of blindness, making it crucial not to miss the optimal treatment window.
Since symptoms are often subtle or absent in the early stages, regular self-examinations are highly recommended to detect any changes
Amsler Grid Test Instructions
- Wear your daily glasses or contact lenses.
- Stand approximately 30cm away from the grid and cover one eye, focusing on the central dot.
- Keep your gaze fixed on the central dot and observe how the surrounding grid appears.
- Repeat the process for the other eye using the same method.
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Lines appear distorted or bent
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Lines appear distorted or bent
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Lines appear distorted or bent
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Weekdays
08:30 a.m. - 05:30 p.m -
Saturdays
08:30 a.m. - 01:30 p.m -
Lunchtime
01:00 p.m. - 02:00 p.m
8F and 9F Sinsa Square, 652 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul
o straight for 5 minutes (330m) on foot from
Exit 6 of Sinsa Station on Subway Line 3
