According to AREDS studies, advanced dry AMD involves geographic atrophy affecting which area?

The advanced stage of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), particularly in the context of the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS), is characterized by the presence of geographic atrophy. This form of degeneration predominantly affects the central part of the retina known as the fovea, which is responsible for sharp central vision. When geographic atrophy occurs, it leads to the gradual loss of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors in this critical area, severely impacting visual acuity and function.

In understanding why the foveal center is the correct focus for advanced dry AMD, one must consider the role that geographic atrophy plays in vision loss. The fovea is essential for tasks that require detailed vision, such as reading and recognizing faces. Advances in imaging techniques have revealed that, in geographic atrophy, the atrophy often begins in the foveal region and can occasionally extend into the surrounding areas but primarily causes significant dysfunction at the fovea itself.

The other areas mentioned, like the peripheral retina, optic disc, and macula's edge, do not align with the typical presentation and significance of geographic atrophy in advanced dry AMD. While these regions can be affected in other conditions or may show