Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Early Diagnosis and Differentiation from Diabetic Retinopathy Using OCT and Fluorescein Angiography

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) are two of the leading causes of central visual impairment in older adults. Both conditions affect the retina but have different etiologies, clinical presentations, and treatments. Early detection is crucial to prevent significant vision loss, and advanced imaging techniques such as OCT (optical coherence tomography) and fluorescein angiography play a fundamental role in differential diagnosis.

Early Diagnosis and Differentiation

AMD is characterized by the degeneration of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. There are two main forms: dry and wet. The wet form, or neovascular AMD, involves the abnormal growth of blood vessels beneath the retina, which can lead to rapid vision loss. Recent studies have demonstrated the efficacy of treatments such as aflibercept and brolucizumab in improving visual acuity and reducing macular thickness in wet AMD.

On the other hand, DR is a microvascular complication of diabetes that affects the retina. It is classified into non-proliferative and proliferative stages, with the latter being more severe due to the formation of fragile new blood vessels. The international classification of DR helps standardize diagnosis and treatment worldwide. Early detection through advanced imaging techniques, such as OCT and fluorescein angiography, is essential to prevent serious complications.

Conclusions

The differentiation between AMD and DR is crucial for the appropriate management of these conditions. While AMD focuses on macular degeneration, DR is a manifestation of systemic diabetes disease. Advanced imaging techniques, such as OCT and fluorescein angiography, are valuable tools for early diagnosis and monitoring of these diseases. The implementation of these technologies, along with a multidisciplinary approach, can significantly improve visual outcomes in affected patients.

Referencias

• [1] Proposed international clinical diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema disease severity scales.
• [2] Efficacy and Safety of Brolucizumab for Diabetic Macular Edema: The KINGFISHER Randomized Clinical Trial.
• [3] Intravitreal aflibercept (VEGF trap-eye) in wet age-related macular degeneration.
• [4] Optical Coherence Tomography (Angiography) Biomarkers in the Assessment and Monitoring of Diabetic Macular Edema.

Created 13/1/2025