Serum C – reactive protein level and other risk factors in age related macular degeneration patients

Introduction: Recent evidence suggests that inflammation and abnormalities of innate immunity play a role in the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration. In light of the evidence linking inflammation and AMD, it is of interest to determine whether CRP levels and other markers of inflammation are predictive of AMD. Methodology: 50 patients of AMD who satisfy the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included by non-random purposive sampling method. Relevant investigations like FFA and OCT were done. Serum CRP levels were assessed by latex agglutination by SeroCHEK AGAPPE Kit having analytical sensitivity as 6mg/L. Results: Majority of study patients have early AMD changes (70%) as compared to late ARMD changes (30%).Wet AMD corresponds to 16% of all the study patients. Both the groups, early as well as late AMD patients have male preponderance. Majority of patients with early AMD have vision from 6/6 to 6/12 and those with late ARMD have vision 6/60 and less than 6/60. Patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disorders and smokers found no relationship with AMD. In the present study, maximum number of AMD patients have pseudophakia. All the study patients with early as well as late AMD changes, have serum CRP levels below 6mg/L i.e; below the reference value taken in this study. Conclusion: The present study does not support the theory alleging non-specific systemic inflammation in the aetiology and natural history of age related macular degeneration. Though, this may be due the small study sample.