Scientists find potential way to fight blindness in elderly

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of vision loss in older adults, affecting those over 50 and prevalent in one-third of people over 75. Dry AMD occurs when macular cells break down, forming drusen deposits that impair vision. About 10% of cases progress to wet AMD, where abnormal blood vessels under the macula cause swelling and rapid degeneration. Research from Trinity College, London, indicates that drusen triggers IL-18, an inflammatory component that mediates this progression. By increasing IL-18 levels, scientists aim to prevent AMD from worsening, potentially preserving patients' sight.

What is a common symptom of AMD in the elderly?

• Increased peripheral vision

• Improved night vision

• Blurred and dark vision

• Enhanced color perception

At what age does AMD commonly start affecting individuals?

• Between 30 and 40

• Over 90

• Under 30

• Over 50

What are drusen?

• A type of contact lens

• A medication for AMD

• Yellow deposits under the retina

• A type of eye surgery

What happens when abnormal blood vessels grow under the macula?

• The retina detaches

• The macula swells and degenerates

• Vision improves

• The macula becomes stronger

What role does IL-18 play in AMD?

• It has no effect on AMD

• It cures AMD completely

• It mediates the progression from dry to wet AMD

• It causes AMD to start