Which specific diffuse pattern is notably linked with the highest GA progression in dry AMD?

The diffuse trickling pattern is particularly significant in relation to geographic atrophy (GA) progression in dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This pattern is characterized by the irregular dispersal of atrophic areas in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), leading to more widespread damage compared to other patterns. Research indicates that the presence of this diffuse trickling configuration is associated with a higher likelihood of GA worsening over time, making it a critical factor when assessing the progression of dry AMD.

In contrast, other patterns such as the reticular, focal, or geographic patterns do not exhibit the same level of progression as the diffuse trickling pattern, indicating that while they might have implications for AMD, they are less strongly correlated with advancing GA. Understanding these patterns helps clinicians predict the course of the disease and tailor management strategies accordingly.