Wet macular degeneration is a common eye condition that can significantly impact central vision. This condition is a leading cause of vision loss in older individuals. Injections directly into the eye have become a primary method for managing this disease.
Understanding Wet Macular Degeneration and Its Treatment
Wet macular degeneration (WMD) involves the abnormal growth of fragile blood vessels under the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. These new vessels are prone to leaking blood and fluid, which can damage the macula and lead to rapid vision loss. Without treatment, this central vision loss can become severe and permanent.
Treatment for WMD primarily involves anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs. These drugs work by blocking a protein called VEGF, which promotes the growth and leakage of abnormal blood vessels. By inhibiting VEGF, the injections help to slow or stop vessel growth and reduce fluid leakage. Common examples include ranibizumab (Lucentis), aflibercept (Eylea), and bevacizumab (Avastin).
Assessing Treatment Outcomes
The goal of anti-VEGF injections for wet macular degeneration is primarily to stabilize vision and prevent further loss. While some vision improvement is possible, the main objective is to halt or significantly slow the progression of the disease. These treatments are highly effective in preventing severe vision loss caused by WMD.
Clinical studies and real-world data indicate that up to 90% of individuals receiving anti-VEGF treatments experience vision stabilization. If WMD is detected and treated early, as many as 30% of patients may regain some lost vision. This means that while vision might not return to normal, treatment can preserve the ability to perform daily tasks that rely on central vision.
Factors Affecting Individual Success
The effectiveness of anti-VEGF injections can vary among individuals due to several influencing factors. The stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis and initial treatment plays a significant role. Starting treatment as soon as possible after diagnosis generally leads to better outcomes, as early intervention can slow vision loss and prevent permanent damage.
An individual’s unique response to the specific anti-VEGF medication also affects success. While some patients respond well to one drug, others may achieve better results with a different one. Adherence to the prescribed treatment schedule is another important factor, as regular injections and follow-up appointments are necessary to maintain the treatment’s benefits and monitor the disease’s activity. The severity of the disease at the beginning of treatment can also influence the extent of visual improvement or stabilization achieved.
Navigating the Treatment Journey
Anti-VEGF injection treatment for wet macular degeneration involves a consistent schedule. Initially, patients typically receive injections once a month for at least three months, or sometimes every six weeks, to establish control over disease activity. Following this initial phase, the frequency of injections may be adjusted based on the individual’s response, often moving to a “treat-and-extend” approach where intervals between injections are gradually lengthened while maintaining disease stability.
Treatment for WMD is often long-term and ongoing, as it manages the condition rather than curing it. Patients may need injections for several years to maintain their vision. While the procedure is quick and generally well-tolerated, some temporary and mild side effects can occur, such as discomfort, redness, or a gritty feeling in the eye for a few days. More serious complications, such as infection or retinal detachment, are rare, occurring in less than 0.1% of injections. If injections are not sufficient to achieve the desired outcome, managing vision loss may involve using low vision aids and participating in vision rehabilitation programs to help individuals adapt to changes in their sight.