Hereditary and untreatable group of diseases which affect the macular area of the retina. When the disease affects the choriocappilaris, as in central areolar choroidal sclerosis, there is gradual loss of central vision in middle life. Genetically, this type of macular degeneration is autosomal dominant or recessive. Other types of macular degeneration affect the pigment epithelium. Identification of the type of deterioration may be helpful in educational planning, however, the wide range of resulting visual loss and rate of degeneration makes prediction of final visual status impossible.
Genetic counseling is indicated.
Eccentric viewing may be observed in an attempt to utilize peripheral input.