Age-Related Macular Degeneration Preferred Practice Pattern ®

Age-Related Macular Degeneration Preferred Practice Pattern®

Age-related macular degeneration is a leading cause of severe, irreversible vision impairment in developed countries. The primary risk factors for the development of advanced AMD include increasing age, northern European ancestry, and genetic factors. Smoking has been shown by numerous studies to be the main modifiable risk factor. This Preferred Practice Pattern (PPP) uses the classification of the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) and a more recent clinical classification to define the early and intermediate stages of AMD since current treatment recommendations are based on these classifications. The PPP recommendations are based on Cochrane-identified reliable systematic reviews.

As a service to its members and the public, the American Academy of Ophthalmology has developed a series of Preferred Practice Pattern® guidelines that identify characteristics and components of quality eye care.

These documents provide guidance for the pattern of practice, not for the care of a particular individual. While they should generally meet the needs of most patients, they cannot possibly best meet the needs of all patients.


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