Which type of choroidal thickness is correlated with higher GA progression rates?

Reduced choroidal thickness is correlated with higher rates of geographic atrophy (GA) progression. In cases of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), particularly in advanced forms that lead to GA, thinner choroidal structures are often associated with a decline in the supportive functions of the choroid, including nutrient and oxygen supply to the outer retina. This compromised support can accelerate the degeneration of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and outer retinal layers, ultimately leading to faster progression of GA.

Research indicates that a thinner choroid may reflect underlying pathophysiological changes that predispose to more rapid disease advancement. This relationship highlights the significance of monitoring choroidal thickness as a potential biomarker for disease progression in patients with AMD. By observing reductions in choroidal thickness, clinicians can gauge the likelihood of increased GA expansion, emphasizing the relevance of this measurement in assessing the condition's prognosis.