Drusen in Korea

Drusen in Korea

Overview

Drusen are small yellow or white deposits that form under the retina, often associated with aging and retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In South Korea, with an aging population and increased screen usage, the prevalence of drusen-related retinal conditions is significant. Early detection is essential to prevent vision loss and manage complications effectively.

What is Drusen?

Drusen are extracellular deposits located between the retina and the underlying retinal pigment epithelium. They can vary in size and number and are categorized as either “hard” or “soft” drusen. While hard drusen may have minimal impact, soft drusen are linked with higher risk of progressing to age-related macular degeneration. Drusen primarily affects older adults but can occasionally be observed in younger individuals with genetic predisposition or retinal disorders.

Symptoms

Drusen themselves often do not cause noticeable symptoms in early stages. However, they can be associated with retinal changes leading to:

  • Blurred or distorted vision
  • Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
  • Dark or empty areas in central vision (scotomas)
  • Changes in color perception
  • Gradual vision loss in advanced cases

Causes

The exact cause of drusen is not fully understood, but contributing factors include:

  • Aging of the retinal tissues
  • Accumulation of waste products from photoreceptor cells
  • Genetic factors influencing retinal metabolism
  • Oxidative stress and inflammation in the retina

Risk Factors

Factors that increase the likelihood of developing drusen include:

  • Age over 50 years
  • Family history of macular degeneration
  • Smoking
  • High cholesterol or cardiovascular disease
  • Chronic light exposure or retinal oxidative stress

Complications

If left unmonitored, drusen can lead to:

  • Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
  • Severe central vision loss
  • Impaired ability to read, drive, or perform detailed work
  • Increased risk of retinal pigment epithelium atrophy or neovascularization

Prevention

Preventive measures and early interventions include:

  • Regular eye examinations, especially after age 50
  • Healthy diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, E, and zinc
  • Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol
  • Managing cardiovascular risk factors
  • Wearing protective eyewear to reduce oxidative stress

Treatment Options in Korea

While there is no direct cure for drusen, South Korean ophthalmology clinics focus on monitoring and managing associated conditions:

Medical Management:

  • Regular retinal imaging (OCT, fundus photography) to monitor drusen progression
  • Nutritional supplementation (AREDS2 formula) to slow AMD progression

Advanced Therapies:

  • Anti-VEGF injections for neovascular AMD associated with drusen
  • Laser therapy in select cases to prevent severe vision loss
  • Low vision aids for patients with significant visual impairment

Specialized Care:

  • Leading ophthalmology centers in Seoul, Busan, and Incheon provide comprehensive care for retinal diseases
  • Genetic counseling for families with hereditary risk of AMD

Early detection and regular monitoring are critical in South Korea to prevent drusen from progressing to serious retinal disorders and to preserve vision effectively.

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