Abstract
Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major health and socio economic problem. The disease affects the macula of the eye and reduces visual acuity.
More accurate imaging methods keep bringing new knowledge about the pathophysiology of the disease. Approach to the treatment of AMD has undergone significant development in recent years.
Treatment methods have shifted from mere attempts to stabilize the disease towards attempts to achieve maximum improvement of visual acuity. First line of the treatment of wet AMD is represented by inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) applied to the vitreous of the affected eye.
They effectively block the binding and activation of VEGF receptors and proliferation of endothelial cells, thereby inhibiting the growth of new abnormal vessels as well as leakage and edema in the retina. Early diagnosis and rapid safe treatment are essential prerequisites of success.
Long term monitoring and personalized treatment are necessary during the treatment of wet AMD. It is important to remember that the costs of treatment of wet AMD are lower than expenses associated with care for blind and visually impaired persons.
The development of new drugs and treatments aims at achieving longer duration of action and less frequent treatment as well as new mechanisms of action of drugs. To date, there are no effective treatments for dry AMD.