Drusen

Drusen are tiny yellow or white deposits in a layer of the retina called Bruch's membrane. They are commonly found in individuals over the age of 60 and can be a sign of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Types of Drusen

There are two types of drusen: hard and soft.

Hard drusen are small, round, and distinct. They are often scattered throughout the retina and are not usually associated with vision loss.

Soft drusen are larger and cluster closer together. Their edges are not as clearly defined as hard drusen. Soft drusen are often a sign of AMD and can lead to vision loss.

Causes of Drusen

The exact cause of drusen is unknown, but they are thought to be a byproduct of the eye's natural aging process. They are more common in people over the age of 60, and their presence may be influenced by genetic factors.

Symptoms of Drusen

Drusen themselves do not usually cause symptoms. However, if they lead to AMD, symptoms can include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty reading or recognizing faces, and a dark or empty area in the center of vision.

Diagnosis of Drusen

Drusen are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam that includes a visual acuity test, dilated eye exam, and retinal imaging.

Treatment of Drusen

There is currently no treatment for drusen. However, if they lead to AMD, treatments can include anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, and photodynamic therapy.

Prevention of Drusen

While there is no surefire way to prevent drusen, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and not smoking.

See also:

• Age-related macular degeneration
• Retina
• Eye examination

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