Judi Dench Loses Reading and Acting Ability to Macular Degeneration as Experts Detail Early Warning Signs
Judi Dench has revealed that her capacity to read and perform has been diminished by macular degeneration. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a primary contributor to vision impairment among U.S. adults aged 50 and above, often presenting no early signs. The condition impacts the macula, while peripheral vision typically remains unaffected. Dry AMD is more prevalent, whereas wet AMD leads to swift vision deterioration due to abnormal blood vessels. Symptoms may include blurry vision, wavy lines, and challenges in face recognition. Treatments for wet AMD involve anti-VEGF injections. In 2023, the FDA authorized pegcetacoplan (Syfovre) and avacincaptad pegol (Izervay) for advanced dry AMD. Key risk factors encompass age, smoking, and genetic predisposition.
Key facts
- Judi Dench says macular degeneration has taken her ability to read and act
- The National Eye Institute identifies AMD as a leading cause of vision loss among U.S. adults age 50 and up
- Dry AMD is the more common form; wet AMD involves abnormal blood vessels leaking fluid or blood beneath the retina
- Metamorphopsia, or wavy straight lines, is a classic AMD symptom
- Drusen are yellow deposits under the retina visible only in a dilated eye exam
- In 2023 the FDA approved pegcetacoplan (Syfovre) and avacincaptad pegol (Izervay) for geographic atrophy
- Wet AMD is treated with anti-VEGF drugs including aflibercept and ranibizumab
- The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends a baseline eye exam at about age 40
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- National Eye Institute
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Quartz
Locations
- United States
Sources
- Quartz —