Retinal diseases
Diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring for retinal diseases, including macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
The retina is the light-sensitive layer of the eye, and its diseases can run for a long time without complaints. The two most common — age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy — do not affect vision in their early stages but cause irreversible loss in their late ones. That is why they are looked for deliberately, rather than waited for.
Age-related macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a chronic disease of the retina that affects the macula — the part responsible for sharp central vision. AMD cannot be fully cured, but modern diagnostics and treatment can slow progression and, in some cases, stabilise or improve vision.
If you notice wavy or distorted lines, central blur, or a dark or grey spot, see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible — early detection strongly influences the prognosis.
At Dr. Ali Acu centrs, we follow evidence-based standards aligned with international guidance, including major studies such as AREDS2, MARINA, ANCHOR and CATT.
What is “macular dystrophy”?
“Macular dystrophy” is a broad term for chronic conditions affecting the macula. The most common type is AMD, typically after the age of 55–60. Peripheral vision usually remains, so total blindness is rare; however, loss of central vision can seriously affect reading, driving and recognising faces.
AMD risk factors
- Non-modifiable: age, family history, lighter iris colour or European ancestry, female sex.
- Modifiable: smoking (a major risk factor), uncontrolled blood pressure or cholesterol, excess weight or physical inactivity, an unbalanced diet, and long-term UV exposure without proper sunglasses.
AMD types and stages
- Dry (atrophic) AMD: most common; slow progression.
- Wet (neovascular) AMD: less common, but more aggressive and responsible for most severe central vision loss.
Dry AMD can convert to wet AMD; regular follow-up is therefore critical.
Diagnosing AMD
A full eye examination may include medical history, visual acuity testing, Amsler grid assessment, dilated fundus examination, and OCT (when available and indicated) to assess fluid, swelling or neovascular activity.
Follow-up
Follow-up is typically every 3–6 months depending on the stage; wet AMD receiving treatment often requires monthly monitoring.
Lifestyle and supplements (AREDS2)
Healthy habits include stopping smoking, managing blood pressure, lipids and diabetes, maintaining a balanced diet, using UV protection, and staying physically active.
AREDS2 supplements may be recommended for specific stages (not for healthy eyes). The typical formula includes lutein/zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc and copper. These supplements do not replace injections for wet AMD.
AMD treatment overview
- Dry AMD: monitoring, risk-factor control, AREDS2 supplementation when indicated, and low-vision aids if needed.
- Wet AMD: anti-VEGF injections are the gold standard (performed in specialised centres).
What we offer at Dr. Ali Acu centrs (wet AMD)
We provide:
- early detection and diagnostic assessment;
- a clear explanation of findings and available options;
- guidance on anti-VEGF strategies and what to expect;
- referral to appropriate injection centres;
- monitoring between treatments, when needed;
- risk-factor counselling and long-term support.
Diabetic retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a major complication of diabetes that damages retinal blood vessels. Early stages may have no symptoms, but progression can lead to bleeding, swelling, abnormal new vessel formation, and vision loss.
Regular eye examinations help prevent severe complications. Many patients develop retinal changes over time — screening is not optional; it is part of diabetes care.
What increases the risk
Longer diabetes duration, poor glucose control (HbA1c), high blood pressure, lipid disorders, kidney disease, pregnancy (in some cases), and smoking.
Stages of diabetic retinopathy
- Mild NPDR: small microaneurysms.
- Moderate NPDR: more hemorrhages and exudates; vision may still be good.
- Severe NPDR: significant ischemia with a high risk of progression.
- PDR (proliferative): fragile new vessels with a high risk of bleeding and traction.
- Diabetic macular edema (DME): fluid accumulation in the macula; can occur at any stage.
Diagnosing diabetic retinopathy
The examination typically includes visual acuity testing, eye pressure measurement, dilated fundus examination with biomicroscopy, staging (often using standardized clinical grading), and review of systemic risk factors (HbA1c, blood pressure, lipids).
Diabetic retinopathy — treatment overview
Evidence-based options include:
- retinal laser therapy (often for proliferative disease)
- anti-VEGF injections (especially for DME)
- vitrectomy for advanced complications
In our clinic, we focus on accurate diagnosis, clear explanation, and timely referral when invasive treatment is needed, along with ongoing monitoring and coordination with your treating physicians.
