|
New York Eye and Ear Infirmary
Researchers Study Light-Activated Therapy for Macular Degeneration
Phase III Trials Begin in January, 1999
New York, NY (January 15, 1999) -- Researchers at The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary are studying the use of an experimental photodynamic therapy treatment to treat the advanced form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) known as "wet" AMD. Wet AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in older adults in the United States. "There are currently no good treatment options available for wet AMD patients," said Richard Rosen, M.D., principal investigator at The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary. "The phase III clinical trial, which began in January, 1999 combines a light-activated drug with a low-power light to treat patients with this debilitating eye disease." AMD is a degenerative disease that affects the macula, the portion of the retina that allows sharp, central vision. It affects approximately 13 million Americans. Ninety percent of all people with AMD have the dry form. Although only 10 percent of people with AMD have the wet form, it accounts for 90 percent of all blindness from the disease. "Wet" AMD causes abnormal blood vessels to grow under the macula, leading to rapid vision loss. The trial will evaluate the potential of a specific type of photodynamic therapy, called
PhotoPoint, to neutralize the abnormal vessels without damaging normal blood vessels and tissues. Men and women over age 50 who have been diagnosed with wet AMD, and have not had previous laser surgery in the affected eye, may be eligible to participate in the study.
|
Printer-Friendly Page
Large Print Version
TOP