Choroidal neovascular membranes and senile macular choroidal degeneration: their association in disciform macular degeneration.

Senile macular choroidal degeneration (SMCD) is responsible for the majority of cases of new central vision loss in the over-fifty population. It is also the single largest cause of legal blindness in the United States. Choroidal neovascular membranes are frequently associated with SMCD and initiate a disciform process that may lead to profound central vision loss. Clinically, it is very difficult to visualize actual new vessel membranes without the aid of rapid sequence fluorescein angiography; various clinical signs, however, are indicative of their presence. Recognition of choroidal neovascular membranes is important; certain membranes lend themselves to photocoagulation by the retinal specialist. This treatment may be successful in preventing further severe and permanent visual loss in some individuals. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the mechanisms of disciform macular degeneration, as well as the clinical signs important to the recognition of choroidal neovascular membranes.