Office  (435) 658-3090 Optical  (435) 658-3093 Billing  (435) 615-0435

Geographic Atrophy

Geographic atrophy is an advanced form of dry macular degeneration (AMD) that causes a black spot in central vision.

Reason for Geographic Atrophy

Our eyes need healthy photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) to gather incoming light and transmit images to the brain. In late-stage dry AMD, protein deposits (drusen) forming on the macula (the central part of the retina) clump on the photoreceptor cells and cause them to die.


When these photoreceptor cells are lost, central vision is lost. This is a slow process that will also begin to affect the visual cells in the retina.

Symptoms of Geographic Atrophy

  • Difficulty reading in dim lighting situations
  • Central vision loss
  • Black spot in central vision
  • Slower reading speed
  • Glare
  • No change in peripheral vision

Risk Factors for Geographic Atrophy

  • Aging (more frequent in a person’s 70s and 80s)
  • History of smoking
  • High blood pressure
  • Light colored iris
  • Genetics

Treatment for Geographic Atrophy

Unfortunately, there is no treatment for this condition. Our doctors use autofluorescence imaging and high density optical coherence tomography techniques to monitor the progression of this disease to help protect vision for as long as possible.


If you are experiencing any change in your central vision, contact us to schedule an eye exam so we can identify the root cause of your vision problems.

Park City

2700 Homestead Rd, Suite 30
Park City, UT 84098

Wyoming

720 6th St,
Evanston, WY 82930