Macular degeneration – also called age-related macular degeneration (AMD) – is a chronic eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision.
Damage to the macula causes progressive loss of central vision, making it difficult to read, drive, recognise faces, and perform tasks requiring fine detail. Side (peripheral) vision is typically preserved.
There are two types:
- dry AMD, which develops slowly as retinal cells gradually break down, is the most common form; and
- wet AMD, in which abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula and leak fluid or blood, causing rapid and severe central vision loss. Wet AMD accounts for most cases of severe vision loss from AMD and requires urgent treatment.
Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australians aged 50 and over. Approximately 1.4 million Australians are estimated to have some form of AMD, with around 1 in 7 Australians over 50 affected. The risk increases significantly with age – AMD is rare before 50 but affects roughly 1 in 3 people over 80.
AMD often develops gradually and painlessly. Early AMD may have no noticeable symptoms.
As the condition progresses, symptoms can include:
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- Blurred or distorted central vision
- A blurry or dark spot in the centre of vision
- Straight lines appearing wavy or bent (a key early warning sign)
- Reduced ability to see fine detail, even with glasses
- Needing brighter light for reading or close work
- Colours appearing less vivid or washed out
- Difficulty recognising faces
- Problems judging distances
Any sudden change in vision, or straight lines that appear wavy, should be assessed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist as soon as possible – particularly for people over 50.
The exact cause of AMD is not fully understood.
It results from a combination of ageing and other risk factors that damage the cells and blood vessels of the macula:
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- Age – the strongest risk factor; AMD is rare before 50 and becomes increasingly common with age
- Genetics – AMD runs in families; having a parent or sibling with AMD significantly increases risk. Several gene variants are associated with increased susceptibility
- Smoking – the most significant modifiable risk factor; smokers are two to four times more likely to develop AMD
- Cardiovascular disease and obesity – associated with increased AMD risk, likely through effects on blood vessel health
- Diet – a diet low in leafy green vegetables, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids may increase risk
- UV light exposure – long-term exposure to sunlight may contribute
AMD is diagnosed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Regular eye examinations are recommended for people over 50, particularly those with risk factors.
Diagnostic tests include:
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- Dilated eye examination – the back of the eye (retina and macula) is examined using a slit lamp and special lenses after the pupils are dilated
- Amsler grid test – a simple grid used to detect distortion or blind spots in central vision; people with AMD can use this at home to monitor their vision between appointments
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) – a detailed imaging scan of the retina layers; the most important test for detecting and monitoring both dry and wet AMD
- Fluorescein angiography – a dye is injected into a vein and photographs are taken as it passes through the retinal blood vessels, highlighting abnormal vessel growth in wet AMD
Early diagnosis is important – wet AMD can be treated effectively if caught promptly, but vision already lost cannot be restored.
Dry AMD
There is currently no treatment that reverses dry AMD. Management focuses on monitoring, lifestyle changes (stopping smoking, healthy diet, UV protection), and nutritional supplements. H
igh-dose antioxidant and mineral supplements have been shown to slow progression to advanced dry AMD in people at high risk.
Wet AMD
Wet AMD requires prompt treatment with anti-VEGF injections. These are intravitreal injections – medications injected directly into the eye under local anaesthetic by an ophthalmologist.
Anti-VEGF medications block the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce leakage, preserving and in some cases improving vision. Treatment requires regular injections, typically monthly at first and then at varying intervals depending on response.
The following specialty medications are available at Ace, a specialty pharmacy for Macular Degeneration.
Note: Anti-VEGF injections for AMD are administered by an ophthalmologist in a clinical setting. Ace dispenses the medications; administration is performed by your specialist.
With Ace, you’ll benefit from:
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- Expert Support — Our dedicated team of health concierges is always available to answer your questions, provide guidance, and help you navigate your condition with confidence.
- Specialty Medication — We offer a wide range of specialty medications and support services, designed specifically for those living with chronic illnesses. Whether you’re looking for help managing a specific condition, or simply need access to the medications you need, we’ve got you covered.
- A Wide Range of Conditions — From diabetes to heart disease, and everything in between, we help manage a variety of special condition
Take control of your health and well-being, and start your journey to better health with Ace today.
Macular Degeneration Resources
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- Macular Disease Foundation Australia – Australia's peak body for macular disease; information, support, and a helpline (1800 111 709)
- Macular Disease Foundation Australia – Find a Specialist
- Vision Australia – support services for people with vision loss
Clinical & Research Resources
