Immunology of age-related macular degeneration

Traditionally, immune and inflammatory mechanisms of disease pathogenesis were applied only to disorders characterized by acute onset and progression associated with obvious clinical signs of inflammation. Recently, however, it has become clear that many chronic degenerative diseases associated with aging demonstrate important immune and inflammatory components. Perhaps similar immune mechanisms participate in agerelated macular degeneration (AMD). Unfortunately, scant information is available on this topic, and if this chapter were restricted to published findings for AMD, it would be quite brief.

Duke Scholars

Author Scott William Cousins Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery