New approaches to the treatment of patients with dry age-related macular degeneration and concomitant mild stabilized open-angle glaucoma

Relevance. Dystrophic processes in the retina and different types of glaucoma occupy a significant place among ocular disabling conditions. In the present article, the institution’s experience concerning a new approach to treatment of patients with dry age-related macular degeneration and concomitant mild stabilized open-angle glaucoma.

Aim. To clinically estimate the influence of the biologically active dietary supplement “Proluksa” on main visual functions and on the quality of life in patients with dry age-related macular degeneration and concomitant mild stabilized open-angle glaucoma.

Materials and methods. Into the study, 60 patients were included; they were divided into two groups. Patients of the first group received the biologically active dietary supplement “Proluksa”, 2 capsules once a day during three months, and instilled IOP-lowering drops; patients of the second group did not take the biologically active dietary supplement “Proluksa”, they instilled IOP-lowering drops only. Both groups were followed during six months. Three times a standard ophthalmologic examination and instrumental investigations (macular electroretinography, vacuum-compression test with control of visual evoked cortical potentials using a “suction cup”, HRT III of the optic disc, OCT of the macular area) were performed in both groups.

Results. There was a statistically significant positive visual acuity dynamics at stable optimal correction for distance in the group 1; the percentage of relative scotomata decreased in the group 1; vacuum-compression test gave negative results at Visits 1, 2, and 3; the p-100 wave amplitude increased – in the group 1 on the background the biologically active dietary supplement “Proluksa” intake; the a-wave amplitude of the macular ERG increased; according to OCT results, there were no reliable changes in the central retinal area; the optic disc neuroretinal rim width at HRT III remained stable during the whole follow-up period.

Conclusions. According to performed investigations, there were: statistically reliable visual acuity increase at stable optimal correction, statistically significant positive dynamics in retinal photosensitivity, and increase in functional activity of external and internal retinal layers in the macular area. To the third month of preparation intake, patients from the group 1 taking the biologically active dietary supplement “Proluksa” noted the enhancement of image resolution, decrease in visual “defocusing”, better color perception.