Macular Degeneration (Macular Degeneration)
Dr. Taylan Öztürk
Macular Degeneration (Macular Degeneration)
What is Yellow Dot Disease (Macular Degeneration)?
Yellow spot disease is a type of degeneration that occurs in the macular area of the eye and is usually associated with old age. The macula is an area on the retina that provides sharp, clear vision. Macular degeneration results in damage or loss of cells in this area, which can lead to vision loss. This disease can affect central vision and significantly reduce the quality of daily life.
In this content, we will discuss what yellow spot disease is, its symptoms, causes, treatment methods, surgery prices and duration. Read this information carefully to protect your eye health.
Causes of Yellow Dot Disease
The main causes of yellow spot disease are:
- Age: Aging can cause the cells in the macula to deteriorate. This disease usually occurs in people aged 50 and over.
- Genetic Factors: People with a family history of yellow spot disease may be at increased risk.
- Lifestyle and Nutrition: Low intake of antioxidants and vitamins may contribute to the development of the disease.
- Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of macular degeneration.
Symptoms of Yellow Dot Disease
Early Symptoms
The early signs of yellow spot disease can often be manifested by changes in the eye:
- Blurred vision: You may experience a blurred feeling in your vision.
- Loss of the Center of Vision: There may be a loss of the central visual field.
- Distortion of Straight Lines: Even straight lines may appear distorted.
Progressive Symptoms
As the symptoms progress, more significant vision problems may occur:
- Blind Spots: Blind spots may appear in the visual field.
- Vision Loss: Central vision loss may increase and affect daily activities.
Diagnosis of Yellow Dot Disease
Eye Examination
Diagnosis of yellow spot disease is usually done through a comprehensive eye examination. It can be diagnosed with the following methods:
- Eye Pressure Measurement: Intraocular pressure is measured.
- Retinal Examination: The retina and macula are examined in detail.
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Cross-sectional images of the retina and macula are taken.
- OCTA (Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography): Takes cross-sectional angiographic views of the retinal layers
Imaging Tests
Various imaging tests may be ordered to determine the size and extent of yellow spot disease:
- Color Fundus Photography: Photographs are taken of the retinal layer.
- Fluorescein Angiography: Detailed images of the retinal vessels are obtained.
Treatment Methods of Yellow Dot Disease
Medication Therapy
Medicines used in yellow spot disease can slow the progression of the disease and reduce vision loss. Anti-VEGF drugs are widely used especially in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Anti-VEGF Therapy:
These drugs reduce the growth of abnormal blood vessels and fluid buildup on the retina.
The medicine is administered by injection into the eye.
Laser Treatment
With this method, the leaking abnormal vessels in the macula are targeted and destroyed with special laser systems. In some cases, subthreshold laser systems can also be used to reduce inflammation in the leaking vessels to reduce macular edema.
- Laser Application: The macular area is treated with special laser systems.
- Objective: Correction of existing visual impairment.
Surgical Intervention
Surgical intervention may be necessary in advanced macular degeneration. Surgical options are considered especially if complications such as epiretinal membrane or macular hole develop.
1-Vitrectomy
Vitrectomy involves removing the vitreous fluid inside the eye and removing abnormal tissues on the retina.
- Removing the Vitreous Fluid: The fluid inside the eye is removed.
- Retinal Cleaning: Abnormal tissues and fluids are removed.
2. Macular surgeries
By removing the scar tissue that develops under the macula or displacing the yellow spot, some vision can be regained in end-stage patients with very low vision or vision loss.
Yellow Dot Disease Surgery: Price and Terms
Surgery Prices
The main treatment options for yellow spot disease are intraocular injections, cold laser and, in some cases, subthreshold macular laser treatment. In general, the cost of yellow spot disease treatment is determined by the following factors:
- Surgical Method: Methods such as vitrectomy, macular hole closure can affect prices.
- Hospital and Doctor Fees: The fees of the hospital and doctor performing the surgery can affect the total cost.
- Medication and Care: Post-operative medication and care costs may also be included in the price.
It is important to contact your doctor for detailed price information.
Surgery Times
Yellow spot disease treatment surgery can usually take 1 to 2 hours. The duration of the surgery may vary depending on the surgical method used and the patient’s condition. Post-operative recovery usually takes a few weeks and requires regular eye checks.
How Can We Help You Treat Yellow Dot Disease?
If you are experiencing symptoms of yellow spot disease or are concerned about your eye health, do not hesitate to contact our team of experts. Make an appointment now to get detailed information about yellow spot disease treatment and find the most suitable solution for you. We are here to protect your eye health and carry out your treatment process successfully.
We Care About Your Eye Health! Contact us immediately to get detailed information about yellow spot disease treatment and to get professional support. Contact us for a healthy eye and clear vision!