Drusen – Yellow Deposits Under the Retina

Drusen are yellow deposits under the retina and are made up of a fatty protein called lipids. While drusen likely do not cause age-related macular degeneration (AMD), their presence increases a person’s risk of developing AMD.

Drusen could be hard or soft drusen and can also occur in the optic nerve. Hard drusen may not cause vision problems, if any, for a long time. However the soft type of drusen increases the risk for AMD.

Drusen occur naturally with age. They are believed to be the result of the eye’s failure to eliminate waste products produced in the cells of the eye. The exact relationship between degenerative macular disease and drusen is not clear.

It should also be noted that optic nerve drusen are not related to aging and often appear in children. While this does not affect a person’s vision, some patients may lose peripheral vision or have temporary flickering or graying out.

Most people with drusen do not have any symptoms. Often, a routine eye exam will incidentally reveal their presence. 

For more information about drusen you can read the original article published on geteyesmart.org.

Finally we would like to say that you should visit your eye doctor regularly to retain healthy eyesight and early detection of eye problems. Get an eye exam once a year. For more help related to your eye health visit 20/20 Eyeglass Superstore in Florida.