Wet (exudative or neovascular) age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of visual impairment among older patients in developed countries. Approximately 10% of patients with age-related macular degeneration develop choroidal neovascularization, which is the hallmark of wet age-related macular degeneration. Vascular endothelial growth factor plays a critical role in the development of choroidal neovascularization, leading to complications such as bleeding under the retina, retinal pigment epithelium detachment or atrophy, hard exudate deposition, or subretinal or subretinal pigment epithelium fluid accumulation with associated vision loss.Wet age-related macular degeneration diagnosis relies on clinical examination and imaging techniques. Fundus examination may show retinal hemorrhages or exudates, whereas optical coherence tomography offers detailed images of retinal structure and fluid. Fluorescein angiography helps confirm neovascularization by visualizing dye leakage from retinal blood vessels.Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy is the primary treatment, with intravitreal injections of agents such as ranibizumab or aflibercept reducing abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage. Depending on the case, laser photocoagulation and photodynamic therapy may also be used. Regular monitoring is crucial for assessing treatment effectiveness and making the necessary adjustments.This activity for healthcare professionals is designed to enhance learners’ competence in evaluating and managing wet age-related macular degeneration. Participants gain a deeper understanding of the condition’s risk factors, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and recommended evaluation and management strategies. Emphasis is placed on the role of the interprofessional team in improving patient care. Enhanced proficiency enables learners to work effectively and confidently within an interprofessional team caring for patients with wet age-related macular degeneration.
- Provider:StatPearls, LLC
- Activity Link: https://www.statpearls.com/ArticleLibrary/viewarticle/133116
- Start Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- End Date: 2023-09-01 05:00:00
- Credit Details: AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™️: 1.0 hours
Nursing: 1.0 hours
Pharmacy: 1.0 hours - MOC Credit Details: ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Accredited CME (ABS)
ABPATH - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Lifelong Learning (ABPATH)
ABS - 1.0 Point; Credit Type(s): Self-Assessment (ABS) - Commercial Support: No
- Activity Type: Enduring Material
- CME Finder Type: Online Learning
- Fee to Participate: Variable
- Measured Outcome: Learner Knowledge, Learner/Team Competence
- Provider Ship: Directly Provided
- Registration: Open to all
- Specialty: All Practice Areas (e.g. ethics), General Surgery