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Previous Volume 342:483-492 February 17, 2000 Number 7 Next

	Since this article has no abstract, we have provided an extract of the first 100 words of the full text and any section headings.

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Age-related macular degeneration, a deterioration of the central portion of the retina, is the chief cause of severe and irreversible loss of vision in developed countries.^1,2 There is no effective treatment for most patients with age-related macular degeneration, and many patients therefore resort to experimental treatments. Physicians must know how to counsel their patients about the limitations and risks of these experimental therapies. Fortunately, several clinical trials sponsored by both the National Eye Institute and the private sector are evaluating novel prophylactic and therapeutic interventions. In addition, there is much exciting, ongoing basic research, some of which may lead to . . . [Full Text of this Article]

Clinical Features and Classification

Epidemiology

Course and Visual Prognosis

Treatments Evaluated in Clinical Trials

Laser Photocoagulation Therapy

Photodynamic Therapy

Interferon Alfa-2a

Investigational Treatments

Submacular Surgery

External-Beam Radiation Therapy

Thalidomide

Treatments Not Yet Evaluated in Clinical Trials

Indocyanine Green–Guided Laser Treatment

Retinal Transplantation and Transplantation of Retinal Pigment Epithelium

Retinal Translocation

Retinal Prosthesis

Gene Therapy

Visual Rehabilitation and Counseling

Prophylaxis

Laser Treatment

Nutrition and Dietary Supplements

Conclusions

Source Information

From the Department of Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania Health System (S.L.F., J.W.B., M.G.M.), and the Department of Ophthalmology, Wills Eye Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University (A.C.H.) — both in Philadelphia.

Address reprint requests to Dr. Fine at the Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania Health System, 51 N. 39th St., Philadelphia, PA 19104-2689.

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