The cells shrivel up and go away just like many other cells in the body as the body ages, except that these cells are so important, because they're vital to sharp vision. Research is proceeding for transplants of cells. Our scientists have been trying to isolate growth factors for these cells, although that's also preliminary and highly experimental. Transplants have been attempted around the world for about three years now but with little or no functional success thus far. There may be a blind spot straight ahead.
Straight lines can appear curved or wavy.
They should immediately see their eye doctor. If you can pick up the wet type earlier, you can spot-weld the vessels when they are still at the side of the macula. Often the vessels start at the side and later grow into the center. Copyright The Johns Hopkins University, 1998. All rights reserved.