Discovery of HTRA1 Gene Provides Potential Marker for AMD

by Dan Roberts October 2006 The protein Complement Factor H (CFH) has previously been found to play a role in the development of soft confluent drusen leading to AMD (see “CFH and CFB Proteins May Lead to AMD”). CFH has implicated inflammation as part of the AMD pathogenesis, and now, discovery of a new gene [Read More]

Age-related Macular Degeneration Does Not Cause Blindness

A revealing opinion poll sponsored by MD Support shows that a strong majority of people affected by AMD do not think of themselves as blind, and they do not want the term to be used to describe their visual impairment. The pronouncement is well known: “age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness [Read More]

Mouse Model Developed for AMD and Stargardt's Research

by Dan Roberts March 2005 A research team at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) School of Medicine and the University of Utah have developed a mouse model of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Stargardt’s disease. As reported in the online edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (March 4, 2005), [Read More]

Depression and Macular Degeneration

from Macular Degeneration–The Complete Guide To Saving And Maximizing Your Sight by Lylas G. Mogk, M.D. and Marja Mogk (Originally published September 2004. Reprinted with permission) Many people who lose vision go through a short period of mild depression as they grieve their loss and adjust their lives. But many others experi ence prolonged periods of [Read More]

Descriptive Terminology for Macular Degeneration

by Dan Roberts Originally published July 2004 By their choice of words, eye care professionals, public relations writers and media reporters hold the power to influence the psychological impact of macular degeneration on newly-diagnosed patients. This article attempts to bring awareness of terminology that is both accurate and sensitive to patient welfare, thereby establishing a [Read More]