Age Related Macular Degeneration Workshop

Continuing Medical Education programme on "Age Related Macular Degeneration "was organized by Sankara Nethralaya in collaboration with Novartis on 28th May 2006. It was attended by over 70 ophthalmologists from Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Calcutta.

The Sankara Nethralaya faculty emphasized the role of various investigative tools to detect early stages of ARMD was discussed. Dr. Tarun Sharma, Director of Shri Bhagvan Mahavir Vitreoretinal Department,Sankara Nethralaya said that the role of general ophthalmologists in early detection and treatment can be extremely important. He also spoke on the changing scenario in treatment of Age Related Macular Degeneration.

The technique and guidelines of a new treatment modality called photodynamic therapy was elaborated. This has been recognized by FDA for treatment of vision threatening type of ARMD i.e. the ‘wet’ ARMD. Photodynamic therapy is a two step procedure which involves an intravenous injection of a nontoxic photosensitive drug followed by its activation by non thermal laser setting up a photochemical reaction. This reaction causes selective ablation of the new vessels formed under the macula without causing collateral damage to the overlying retina. Various clinical trials conducted worldwide have proven its efficacy to prevent severe visual loss in ‘wet’ Age related macular degeneration.

Other upcoming treatment modalities like intraocular injection of steroids as well as vascular endothelial growth factor in inhibiting further growth of sub retinal vessels were discussed.  Role of a healthy life style and eating habits cannot be overemphasized. Where smoking an alcohol can increase the incidence of ARMD, vegetables and fruits contain antioxidants which can have a protective effect.