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New Research Supports Connection Between Macula Pigment Optical Density and Macular Degeneration

13th June, 2010 - Posted by Dr. S. Barry Eiden - No Comments

A number of recent research studies that were presented at this year’s prestigious ARVO eye conference in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida support the association between Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) and low levels of measure ocular pigment optical density (MPOD). There are two key protective photopigments located in the macula. One is lutein and the other is zeaxanthin.

In the first study 82 healthy subjects and 96 subjects with ARMD had MPOD levels measured and compared. There was a statistically significant difference in MPOD scores between the two groups (those with ARMD had lower MPOD levels) and there was a statistically significant correlation between low MPOD and ARMD (p=0.01 and r=-0.24). These results agree with a number of other previously presented studies showing similar relationships.

The second study evaluated a number of visual performance functions and their correlation with MPOD scores. Glare recovery, photostress recovery, and contrast were evaluated on 111 healthy subjects. There was a direct correlation of low MPOD and poor vision function in these measured skills.

This  provides further evidence based data supporting the importance of measuring MPOD levels. We know that we can positively effect MPOD levels with the use of supplements of both lutein and zeaxanthin along with dietary considerations. Long term studies will ultimately determine if increasing MPOD levels via this type of intervention has a positive impact by decreasing the rate of ARMD cases. Until then we at NSVC still believe proactive intervention with the use of supplements and diet along with UV protection, avoidance of smoking, avoidance of obesity, and intervention regarding other modifiable risk factors for ARMD is in our patients best interest.

QuantifEye System for measurement of macula photopigment optical densisty levels

Be sure to have your MPOD levels tested regularly at NSVC with the use of our “QuantifEye” macula pigment measurement instrument.