NURS 287 Lecture Notes - Laser Coagulation, Photodynamic Therapy, Otitis Media
28 Apr 2013
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Document Summary
Age-related macular degeneration (amd) is the most common cause of irreversible central vision loss in older adults. Family history is another strong predictor of risk. Amd has two forms: dry (nonexudative) and wet (exudative): dry amd is more common, with close vision tasks becoming more difficult. Atrophy of macular cells leads to slow, progressive, and painless vision loss: wet amd is more severe, with rapid onset and development of abnormal blood vessels related to the macula. Symptoms are blurred, distorted, and darkened vision with visual field blind spots: wet amd treatment includes laser photocoagulation, photodynamic therapy, and intravitreous injectable drugs. Glaucoma is associated with increased intraocular pressure (iop), optic nerve atrophy, and peripheral visual field loss. Glaucoma often occurs with advanced age and is a major cause of permanent blindness. Etiology is due to consequences of elevated iop. Glaucoma is largely preventable with early detection and treatment.
