In this condition, the pigmented retinal cells die, resulting in patches that look different from the rest.
The name of the condition comes from this appearance, which is like distinct regions on a map.
Geographic atrophy affects about 20% of people with AMD.
FG Trade / Getty Images
Around the world, approximately 8 million people have the condition in at least one eye.
FG Trade / Getty Images
Symptoms
In the beginning, geographic atrophy may have no symptoms.
The symptoms can take a long time to appear.
When they do this, they can see that an area of the retina is missing its dark pigment.
You may also have retinal imaging during the exam.
They were the first FDA-approved treatments for GA and were both approved in 2023.
Each treatment comes as a solution that is injected directly into the affected eye by a healthcare provider.
As the condition progresses, a person with the condition will experience more significant vision loss that is permanent.
The two approved medications can slow this progress but not restore vision that is already lost.
They can recommend ways to optimize your remaining vision.
About 20% of people with late AMD are affected by geographic atrophy.
Learning that you have geographic atrophy is difficult, but remember that the condition does not progress quickly.
Researchers are also working on ways to treat the condition.
American Academy of Ophthalmology.Geographic atrophy.
2023;29(5-a Suppl):S2-S11.
doi:10.18553/jmcp.2023.29.5-a.s2
The Bright Focus Foundation.What to expect when you receive a diagnosis of AMD.
Bright Focus Foundation.The implantable miniature telescope for macular degeneration.
American Academy of Ophthalmology.Low-vision aids.
