Drusen - What are They?
Macular Degeneration SymptomsMacular drusen can be one of the earliest symptoms of macular degeneration.What are they and what does that mean for your vision? They are simply small yellow or white deposits of lipid (a fatty compound)and calcium that build up in the Bruch's membrane of the eye. The Bruch's membrane is a layer of tissue underneath the retina. The other two important layers are the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the the choroid layer, filled with blood vessels. The job of these three layers of tissue is to bring oxygen and nutrients to the rod and cone cells and remove built up waste products. When this transportation system gets clogged up and when there is any interference is this system - the rod and cone cells don't get the nourishment they need and can't get rid of the built up waste products. The cone and rod cells then begin to degenerate or die.
Well, why is this important to know? And if I have some of these deposits should I be concerned? It may depend on what type you have. There are two main types - "hard" and "soft."
Hard DrusenThis type of deposit is the less harmful form. They are characterized by:round shape distinct, well defined borders
and are quite small. They are: √ very common with age and are √ very often seen in those 40 and older √ not an indication of the development of macular degeneration √ may develop into the soft kind √ made up of lipids and calcium
Soft DrusenThis type is considered to be an early indicator of macular degeneration, although some people with this type do not develop macular degeneration.The soft form are characterized by: pale yellow ill-defined borders larger than the hard form vary in size and shape. Soft Deposits: √ Are more often associated with loss of vision √ May cause the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) to separate from the other retinal layers. If you have a family history of macular degeneration it is especially important to know if you are forming these deposits. Once they have been detected in your eye exam, it is time to take note and make some changes in your diet and lifestyle. But don't wait for these symptoms . It is much easier to try to prevent macular degeneration than it is to try to reverse it. To read more about what actions you can take click here:
Macular Degeneration Prevention
TreatmentAlthough these yellow spots don't cause macular degeneration, they do play a role in the progression of this eye disease.Not surprisingly there are two macular degeneration studies that are looking at these deposits more closely. The studies are: 1) Prophylactic Laser Treatment of Drusen Maculopathy This study is taking place in Sweden and is looking to see if mild laser treatment will have an affect on the soft form and the incidence of exudative complications. Patients must be over 55. Those with choroid neovascularization (CNV) are ineligible. 2) Copaxone in Age Related Macular Degeneration Copaxone is an immunomodulatory agent used to treat neurodegenerative disease. This study wants to see if this drug may work in the eye as a preventive treatment. The primary measure of outcome will see if there is "total drusen area reduction." The Department of Ophthalmology at Kaplan Medical Center in Rehovot, Israel is currently recruiting participants.
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