What happens to the risk of disease progression with an increase in the number of drusen?

With an increase in the number of drusen, the risk of disease progression, particularly in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), increases. Drusen are small yellowish deposits that form between the retinal pigment epithelium and Bruch's membrane. They are considered a key indicator of the early stages of AMD.

As the number and size of drusen increase, it signifies a greater degree of retinal damage and is associated with a higher likelihood of developing choroidal neovascularization (CNV), which can lead to vision loss. The presence of larger and more numerous drusen correlates with a greater risk of progression to advanced AMD forms, ultimately affecting visual acuity and health of the retina.

This understanding highlights the importance of monitoring drusen in clinical assessments, as they serve as a significant risk factor for progression in patients with AMD. The relationship between drusen presence and disease progression underlines that vigilance is necessary for early intervention and management strategies.