Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) damages the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. Wet AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the retina and leak fluid or blood, causing rapid and severe central vision loss. Wet AMD usually develops from the more common dry form of AMD and accounts for most cases of severe vision loss from the disease.

Most people with wet AMD notice changes in their vision quickly. Symptoms include blurred or distorted central vision, dark or empty areas, straight lines appearing wavy, and colors looking less bright. Risk factors include being older than 60, having a family history of AMD, smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, and Caucasian ethnicity. Wet AMD often develops from dry AMD before abnormal blood vessels form.

Wet AMD is diagnosed using a dilated eye exam, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography to visualize abnormal blood vessels. Treatment aims to slow or stop vision loss. Anti-VEGF injections such as ranibizumab, aflibercept or bevacizumab reduce abnormal vessel growth and leakage. Some cases may also benefit from photodynamic therapy or laser treatments. Timely treatment and regular follow-up exams are essential to preserve vision.