Retinal Diseases

Retinal diseases can have inflammatory, degenerative, genetic causes or be associated with systemic diseases. In recent years, advances in the diagnosis and treatment of certain retinal conditions have brought about a true revolution.

Diagnosis of Retinal Diseases

Stereoscopic examination of the fundus, supported by modern imaging methods such as SOCT, angio-OCT, or ultrasound, allows for early and precise diagnosis of retinal diseases, enabling appropriate treatment. Modern diagnostics can detect changes at a very early stage, significantly increasing the chances of halting disease progression and preserving good vision.

Methods of Treating Retinal Diseases

The gold standard in treating many retinal conditions has become therapy based on intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF agents. This modern method involves injecting special drugs directly into the eye, inhibiting uncontrolled blood vessel growth and minimizing retinal swelling. Combined with retinal laser therapy and surgical treatment, such as vitrectomy, it is possible to halt disease progression and significantly improve vision.

Alternative and Supportive Treatment Methods

In addition to anti-VEGF injections, therapies such as laser photocoagulation are sometimes used. This method helps seal leaking blood vessels and prevents further retinal damage. In advanced cases, vitrectomy – a surgical procedure to remove the vitreous body and replace it with a special fluid – is performed, improving retinal condition.

Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

One of the greatest challenges in modern ophthalmology is the growing number of cases of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This disease leads to significant vision deterioration, often in both eyes, severely limiting the quality of life of patients. The introduction of anti-VEGF injections has given patients a chance to halt the progression of vision loss and, in some cases, even improve it.

Other Retinal Diseases Treated with Anti-VEGF Injections

Anti-VEGF injections are also effective in treating other retinal diseases, such as:

• Diabetic macular edema – often occurs in diabetic patients due to damage to retinal blood vessels.
• Macular edema caused by retinal vein occlusion (thrombosis) – Thrombosis can block blood flow, leading to retinal edema and vision loss.
• Subretinal neovascularization – for example, in high myopia or central serous chorioretinopathy, which often affects young men. The formation of new blood vessels can lead to swelling and retinal damage.

Anti-VEGF agents are administered painlessly as intravitreal injections. Regular use of this therapy can halt disease progression and, in some cases, improve visual function.

Diagnostics at OcuMedica Clinics

At OcuMedica, we diagnose retinal diseases based on fundus examination, supplemented by non-invasive SOCT and angio-OCT tests. These advanced diagnostic methods allow for the assessment of retinal structure and blood flow in retinal vessels, enabling monitoring of disease status and treatment effectiveness.

When necessary, we monitor the disease progression using Fundus Camera imaging and, if needed, complement diagnostics with fluorescein and indocyanine angiography, providing detailed visualization of retinal vessels.

Intravitreal Injections

Intravitreal injections are administered by Dr. Mateusz Paluch, who holds appropriate certifications and extensive experience in diagnosing and treating retinal diseases. These injections are performed under sterile conditions and, thanks to precise administration techniques, are safe for the patient.

Amsler Grid Test

We encourage you to download and print the Amsler Grid Test, which allows for self-assessment of the central part of the retina. This test enables the early detection of visual abnormalities, which is particularly important for patients at risk of developing retinal diseases.

Advice for Patients

Early detection of retinal changes is key to effective treatment. Therefore, we recommend regular check-ups, especially for patients predisposed to eye diseases or systemic conditions such as diabetes. Taking care of eye health and avoiding risk factors like smoking or lack of physical activity can contribute to better retinal condition.