What may and may not be feasible to minimize the worsening of geographic atrophy

Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is classified into neovascular AMD and non-neovascular dry AMD (d-AMD). The advanced form of d-AMD is called geographic atrophy. Although intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF drugs currently represents the standard of treatment for neovascular AMD, we are still facing daily challenges in the treatment of the dry form. Several potential options for a new therapy, including nutritional supplements, lipofuscin, inhibitors of complement factors, blood flow of the choroid, neuroprotection and encapsulated cell technology, are the objects of several studies and trials worldwide. Only a few new products will actually enter the market. When this happens, our duty will be to provide the best treatment possible and avoid people with d-AMD progressing toward a more severe form of geographic atrophy and help them maintain their visual acuity and therefore their independence.