Correlation of macular sensitivity measures and visual acuity to vision-related quality of life in patients with age-related macular degeneration

Abstract Background Visual acuity is commonly used as a functional outcome measure in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), despite having weak correlation self-perceived visual quality of life. Microperimetry useful method detecting loss function. We wanted to investigate the relationship between these two objective measures and subjective vision-related life, finding out which more patient-relevant. Methods Fifty-one consecutive AMD were recruited study. Participants required complete Function Questionnaire 39, Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study examination microperimetry assessment using Micro Perimeter 3. One patient withdrew consent seven dropped due cooperation difficulties under microperimetry. Forty-three included study: twenty-eight late (exudative AMD) fifteen early (non-exudative) AMD. The right eye was standard, best-corrected acuity. Results There higher life sensitivity (r = 0.458; p 0.014) than 0.446; 0.018) positive 0.542; 0.037) while not statistically significant. Composite score 0.469; 0.012) correlated highest nasal outer sub-region near-distance activities 0.652; < 0.001) inner Correlations composite sub-regions significant, but 0.012). Conclusions Macular measured correlates AMD, showing it be patient-relevant measure. Furthermore, macula appear preferred retinal loci (338 words)