Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow beneath the macula. These blood vessels often leak blood and fluid, which can cause loss of vision.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses a combination of laser and injected medicine to help treat wet AMD.

In this treatment, dye is used to make abnormal blood vessels sensitive to light. The dye is injected intravenously and activated by a low-power laser, sometimes called a "cold" laser.

The treatment seals the leaky blood vessels to prevent further vision loss.

Photodynamic therapy doesn’t fix vision already damaged by AMD, but it may prevent further vision loss from the disease.

Not all patients with wet AMD are candidates for PDT. Patients should be seen by a retina specialist to determine eligibility.

For photodynamic therapy and other treatments for age-related macular degeneration, visit a Duke Eye Center near you in Durham, Raleigh, Cary, and other areas of North Carolina. Contact us for an appointment.