Macular degeneration, medically known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is one of the most common retinal diseases that affects the center of vision. This condition usually occurs in older adults and may lead to central vision loss.
Since it can cause permanent loss of vision if not detected early, regular eye examinations and appropriate diagnostic tests are extremely important.

Ophthalmology specialist Op. Dr. Diclehan highlights the importance of early diagnosis by stating:
“The earlier macular degeneration is diagnosed, the higher the success rate of treatment.”

The Importance of Macular Degeneration

The macula is a special part located in the very center of the retina that enables clear and sharp vision. When the cells in this region become damaged, the person begins to see the center of the objects they look at as blurred or dark.
Because macular degeneration often progresses slowly, it may not be noticed in the early stages. For this reason, regular tests play a vital role in stopping the silent progression of the disease.

Op. Dr. Diclehan recommends that everyone over the age of 40 have a fundus (retinal) exam at least once a year, and those with a family history of macular disease should be monitored more frequently.

Symptoms of Macular Degeneration

Before a definite diagnosis is made, certain symptoms may raise suspicion of macular degeneration, such as

• A dark or blurry spot in the center of vision
• Colors appearing faded or distorted
• Straight lines appearing wavy or crooked
• Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
• Light sensitivity

If even one of these symptoms is present, an eye specialist should be consulted without delay.
According to Op. Dr. Diclehan, recognizing these symptoms early allows vision loss to be stopped with treatment.

Tests Used to Diagnose Macular Degeneration
Diagnostic tests for macular degeneration are designed to examine the retina in detail. Thanks to modern technology in 2025, the disease can now be detected even in its earliest stages.

The main tests used, as explained by Op. Dr. Diclehan, include:

Amsler Grid Test

The Amsler grid is one of the simplest yet most effective screening tools. The patient looks at a grid of squares and focuses on the central point.
If lines appear wavy, distorted, or dark, this may indicate macular damage.

Op. Dr. Diclehan notes that this test can even be used at home, but a professional exam is still required for diagnosis.

Fundus (Retinal) Examination

In this test, the eye doctor examines the retina directly using a special light after dilating the pupils.
Changes such as pigment disruption, swelling, or abnormal blood vessels in the macula are evaluated.

Op. Dr. Diclehan recommends that fundus examination be included in every routine eye check-up, as early signs may be detected even when the patient has no symptoms.

OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
OCT provides microscopic cross-sectional images of the retina and shows swelling, thinning, and fluid accumulation with high resolution.

As of 2025, new-generation OCT devices can detect changes smaller than a micron.
Op. Dr. Diclehan states that OCT is the gold standard test in diagnosing and monitoring macular degeneration.

Fluorescein Angiography

A special dye is injected into the bloodstream and retinal images are recorded as it passes through eye vessels.
This helps detect abnormal blood vessels, bleeding, and leakage.

According to Op. Dr. Diclehan, this test is especially valuable in suspected wet AMD cases.

Multifocal Electroretinography (mfERG)

This test measures the electrical response of retinal cells to evaluate their functional status.
Although used mainly for research, Op. Dr. Diclehan states that it provides useful information about nerve cell function in early disease.

Can Macular Degeneration Be Tested at Home?
The Amsler Grid is the simplest home test and helps detect visual changes early.
However, home tests only serve as an early warning a professional eye examination is always required for diagnosis.

As Op. Dr. Diclehan explains

Home testing provides an advantage in noticing changes early, but the doctor is always the one who should guide the treatment process.

Treatment Planning Based on Test Results
Test results directly guide treatment planning.
While nutritional support and vitamins are generally recommended in dry AMD, intravitreal injections or laser therapy are used in wet AMD.

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that each patient must receive an individualized treatment plan rather than a single standard approach.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Macular degeneration progresses silently, and many patients only notice it at later stages.
However, with early testing, the disease can be brought under control — and vision loss can largely be prevented.

According to Op. Dr. Diclehan:
“Success in macular degeneration begins with early diagnosis. Even the smallest change in the eye can make a big difference.”

Macular degeneration is a serious eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not diagnosed early.
But thanks to developing medical technology, the disease can now be detected in its earliest stage. Tests such as OCT, fluorescein angiography, and the Amsler Grid play a key role in diagnosis.

With extensive experience, Op. Dr. Diclehan uses the most advanced testing methods in the diagnosis and follow-up of macular degeneration to help protect his patients’ vision.
Regular testing is the most effective way to slow disease progression and preserve eyesight.