Age-related macular degeneration and depression: a review of recent research.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this review is to summarize current research findings regarding relationships between depression and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).


RESULTS
The current literature indicates that the prevalence of depression among patients with AMD is fairly high (approximately 30%) and that depression is a major cause of disability among patients with AMD, even when severity of vision loss is considered. Interventions to alleviate the emotional distress associated with vision loss are also discussed.


CONCLUSIONS
Several studies indicate that AMD is a risk factor for depression, and this has serious consequences for the quality of life among patients with AMD.
Casten
Robin J
RJ
Jefferson Medical College and Wills Eye Hospital, and Jefferson Hospital for Neuroscience, 900 Walnut Street, 8th floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. Robin.Casten@Jefferson.edu
Rovner
Barry W
BW
Tasman
William
W
D035843:Biomedical Research / Q000639:trends; D003863:Depression / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008268:Macular Degeneration / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000523:psychology*; D012307:Risk Factors