Dry AMD
Dry AMD (age-related macular degeneration) is an early stage of the disease associated with the gradual deterioration of the macula and development of deposits on the macula called drusen.
Drusen are yellowish deposits that can vary in size and number. They often are found in people over age 60. Your eye doctor can detect drusen during a comprehensive dilated eye exam.
Dry AMD occurs in stages, early and intermediate. Those with early AMD (age-related macular degeneration) have either several small drusen or a few medium-sized drusen. At this stage, there are usually no symptoms or vision loss. Intermediate AMD is defined as having either many medium-sized drusen or one or more large drusen. At this stage, some see a blurred spot in the center of their vision and more light may be needed for reading and other tasks.
Those who suffer from dry AMD are at significantly greater risk of developing the more serious wet AMD. Studies show that 26% of patients with intermediate AMD in both eyes will develop advanced, or wet, AMD within 5 years1.
1. AREDS Report No. 11
