Dr.Sanchita Agarwal

Dr. Swarna Biseria Gupta, Dr.Sanchita Agarwal

Abstract

Aims

• To assess the clinical impact of ARMD

• To assess the cause of loss to follow up

• To counsel the patients for regularity

Method

280 patients of ARMD of age group 55 to 75yrs. studied, for five years. Follow up done every 6 monthly, in a teaching institution of state. Lost to follow up taken as patients missing for two consequently follow up, and did not attend afterward. Causes of missed follow up evaluated.

Results

30% patients left follow up over 4yrs, rate of loss of follow up decreases with age and high income group. Good visual acuity leads to high rate of absence from follow up, along with multiple system involvement, treatment modalities and long distant consultation.

Conclusion

Treatment and monitoring of ARMD is critical to prevent visual loss. Most psychophysical tools are poor indicators for continuing treatment, proper counselling and effective treatment are necessary to prevent follow up and visual loss.