Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is characterized by several funduscopic abnormalities:
Drusen
- Drusen: These are extracellular deposits that accumulate between the basal lamina of the retinal pigment epithelium and Bruch's membrane. They are a defining feature of AMD
- Reticular pseudodrusen: These are associated with an increased risk of progression to late AMD
Pigmentary changes
- Pigmentary abnormalities: These changes are associated with at least medium-sized drusen and are indicative of intermediate AMD
Atrophy
- Geographic atrophy: This is a late-stage manifestation of AMD, characterized by the degeneration of the retinal pigment epithelium and photoreceptors
Neovascularization
- Neovascular AMD: This is another late-stage manifestation of AMD, characterized by the growth of new blood vessels under the retina, which can lead to severe vision loss
In conclusion, the funduscopic abnormalities noted in AMD include drusen, reticular pseudodrusen, pigmentary changes, geographic atrophy, and neovascularization. These features can be detected and characterized using color fundus photography and other imaging modalities