Light therapy, specifically photobiomodulation, is emerging as a potential treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the most common form of the disease. Researchers presented findings at the American Academy of Ophthalmology annual meeting in Chicago, suggesting the therapy can reduce the risk of vision loss and slow disease progression.
Mechanism of Action
Photobiomodulation uses specific wavelengths of light to enhance the function of retinal cells, promoting their health and longevity. This technique has already found applications in other eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy. Unlike wet AMD, which has effective drug treatments, dry AMD patients have limited options beyond lifestyle adjustments to protect their vision.
Clinical Trial Results
The study involved 100 patients with high-risk dry AMD, randomly assigned to receive either photobiomodulation or a placebo treatment. The therapy was administered three times a week for three weeks, with the cycle repeated every four months. After two years, 53% of the patients treated with light therapy showed significant improvement in vision, as measured by standard eye charts. In contrast, 18% of the placebo group experienced a significant decline in vision.
Furthermore, the light therapy group demonstrated a 73% reduction in the progression toward geographic atrophy, the advanced stage of AMD. The control group, conversely, showed a 24% increase in disease progression.
Expert Commentary
"It’s the first and only noninvasive treatment that appears to be helpful in improving vision and decreasing progression of dry AMD," said lead investigator Dr. David Boyer, with the Retina-Vitreous Associates Medical Group in Los Angeles.
Regulatory Outlook
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is anticipated to make a decision in December regarding the approval of photobiomodulation for the treatment of dry AMD. If approved, this therapy could provide a much-needed option for patients facing slow, progressive vision loss.
Disease Context
Approximately 80% of macular degeneration cases are the dry form, characterized by the thinning of the macula and the accumulation of drusen, protein clumps, leading to a gradual loss of central vision.
