Macular degeneration is an age-related condition that affects individuals later in life. It causes a gradual deterioration in the sharpness of the central vision. The problem starts in a section of the retina called the macula. This part of the retina is responsible for fine resolution vision. There are two categories of macular degeneration: dry and wet.
Dry macular degeneration is a slow process, which initially has minimal effect on the vision. Over time it can cause a gradual deterioration in the quality of the central vision.
Wet macular degeneration is a more severe form of the disease and can cause a more sudden deterioration in the central vision.
While considerable research is being done to find new treatments for macular degeneration, currently only a small number of patients with the wet form of macular degeneration are considered candidates for treatment.
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