AMD is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. As a leading cause of vision loss in people over 50, AMD poses significant challenges but advancements in treatment are offering new hope. Let’s explore the latest innovations in AMD treatment and how they are changing the landscape for patients.
What is AMD?
AMD is categorized into two main types:
- Dry AMD: The most common form of AMD, accounting for 80-90% of cases. It involves the gradual breakdown of macular cells, leading to slow vision loss.
- Wet AMD: Less common but more severe. It involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina, which can leak fluid and cause rapid vision loss.
Recent Advances in AMD Treatment
- Anti-VEGF Therapy: Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor is a protein that promotes the growth of abnormal blood vessels in wet AMD. Anti-VEGF drugs inhibit this protein, helping to prevent or reduce vision loss.
Newer anti-VEGF agent such as Faricimab and brolucizumab have been introduced. These drugs offer longer intervals between injections compared to earlier treatments like Lucentis and Eylea, reducing the need for frequent office visits.
- Gene Therapy: This aims to address the underlying genetic causes of AMD by introducing or altering genetic material within a patient’s cells.
Trials are underway for therapies like RGX-314, which aims to provide a one-time treatment that delivers a gene encoding for a protein to suppress abnormal blood vessel growth in wet AMD. Early results show promise in reducing the frequency of required injections.
- Stem Cell Therapy: Stem cell therapy seeks to regenerate damage retinal cells or replace lost cells to restore vision.
Research is exploring the use of stem cells derived from the patient’s own tissues or from embryonic sources to create retinal cells that can be implanted into the eye.
Clinical trials are in progress and preliminary results suggest potential for stabilizing or improving vision.
- Novel Drug Delivery Systems: Improved delivery systems aim to increase the effectiveness and reduce the frequency of treatments.
Innovation such as sustained release implants and injectable depot systems are being developed. For example, Port Delivery System (PDS) offers a device that implanted in the eye to deliver anti-VEGF medication over an extended period, potentially reducing the need for frequent injections.
- Light and Laser Therapy: Light based therapies including laser treatments, aim to destroy abnormal blood vessels, or promote the growth of healthy tissue.
Newer techniques like Micropulse laser therapy offer a less initiative approach with reduced risk of damaging surrounding healthy tissue. These therapies are used in conjunction with other treatments to improve outcomes.
As the field of ophthalmology progresses, opportunities for specialized learning, such as pursuing an MD in Ophthalmology or engaging in online courses, are increasingly valuable. Experts like Dr. N. Venkatesh Prajna are leading advancements in the field, and exploring resources like ophthalmology MD online courses can provide deeper insights into managing conditions like AMD effectively.
