Myopic Maculopathy
What is Myopic Maculopathy?
Myopic maculopathy is a condition that affects the retina and macula, which are crucial for central vision, in people with high myopia (severe nearsightedness). This eye condition occurs due to excessive elongation of the eyeball, which stretches and thins the retina, leading to degenerative changes in the macula. This condition can impair vision and, in severe cases, lead to permanent vision loss if untreated.
Symptoms
How can you tell if you might have myopic maculopathy? Common symptoms include
Blurry or distorted central vision (metamorphopsia)
Difficulty reading or
recognizing faces
Dark or blank spots
in central vision
(scotomas)
Reduced ability to see fine details
Gradual or sudden worsening of vision
Who is at risk?
Severe nearsightedness
(greater than -6.00 diopters)
Age-related
degeneration
Prolonged progression
of myopia
Smoking and unhealthy
lifestyle choices
What leads to myopic maculopathy?
High Myopia
Severe elongation of the eyeball stretches and thins the retina, leading to macular damage
Age
Older individuals with high myopia are more prone to degenerative changes
Genetics
A family history of high
myopia or macular diseases
increases the risk
Environmental Factors
Extensive near work and lack of outdoor activities during childhood may contribute to high myopia
Prevention
How can you protect your eyes? Preventative measures include
Myopia Control
Use myopia control in younger individuals methods such as orthokeratology lenses, atropine eye drops, or specialized glasses
Healthy Lifestyle
● Maintain a balanced diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients (e.g., lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3)
● Avoid prolonged screen use or near work; follow the 20-20-20 rule
Regular Eye Exams
Early detection of high myopia
can help prevent progression
UV Protection
Wear sunglasses to reduce UV-related damage to the retina
Treatment
What can be done to manage or treat myopic maculopathy?
Anti-VEGF Injections
These injections help reduce abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage
Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
● PDT involves injecting a light-sensitive drug (verteporfin) and activating it with laser light to seal leaking blood vessels.
● Vitrectomy may be considered if retinal detachment or macular holes occur
Vision Aids
Low vision aids and
rehabilitation in cases of
severe vision loss
Close Monitoring
Regular follow-ups with an
eye specialist to track
changes in the
macula
English 
Bahasa Indonesia