Topical dorzolamide increases pericentral visual function in age-related maculopathy: pilot study findings with short-wavelength automated perimetry.

PURPOSE: Numerous studies have confirmed the enhancement of ocular circulation by carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs). Topical CAI treatment with dorzolamide averts the significant pericentral visual function loss accompanying retinal and choroidal vasoconstriction during acute hyperventilation-induced hypocapnia. This study was designed to discern whether dorzolamide might similarly enhance macular function in patients with age-related maculopathy (ARM).

METHODS

In a masked, placebo-controlled study, 40 patients with ARM and acuity > 20/50 were randomized to receive either dorzolamide or placebo for 12 weeks, thrice daily. After pre-study perimetric training, pericentral function (mean sensitivity) was quantified using Humphrey 10-2 short-wavelength automated perimetry (SWAP), before and after 12 weeks of topical therapy.

RESULTS

Dorzolamide-treated eyes demonstrated a significant increase in mean sensitivity of + 1.55 dB (p = 0.04); placebo-treated eyes showed no significant change (+ 0.58 dB; p = 0.10). Given the non-significant increase of mean sensitivity in the placebo-treated group, fewer than 100 subjects per group would be required to afford > 70% power to yield a significant direct comparative difference between treatment and placebo in a prospective, randomized study of equally short duration.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated a significant increase in short-wavelength sensitivity in ARM with dorzolamide and the lack thereof with placebo. These encouraging pilot study data suggest a potential role for topical CAIs in ARM patients, and establish objective parameters for prospective studies to further evaluate the effects of dorzolamide in ARM.