What is the difference between soft drusen and hard drusen

About Foundation Museum of the Eye. What is the difference between drusen and exudates? NOV 04, Question: What is the difference between drusen and exudates and how are they distinguished in fundus photos special photos taken during eye exam? Answer: On initial observation, drusen yellow fatty deposits that form under the retina and exudates another type of fat that can appear under the retina do appear similar. Ask an Ophthalmologist. Browse Answers. Medical disclaimer By submitting your question, you agree to be answered by email.

Question Required. Email address Required. Enter a Valid email address. Over time, AMD can result in central vision loss. Drusen can also occur in the optic nerve. Unlike drusen in the retina, optic nerve drusen can cause minor loss of peripheral side vision.

Optic nerve drusen are not related to aging. Drusen do not cause total blindness , but can result in central vision loss. Central vision allows us to focus on details straight ahead. People with more soft and larger drusen, are at higher risk of experiencing this type of vision loss in the future than people with fewer and smaller drusen.

AMD is a progressive disease, which means it gets worse over time. AMD can lead to retinal damage and central vision loss. Optic nerve drusen can sometimes cause peripheral side vision loss.

But the vision loss caused by optic nerve drusen is usually so minimal that it may not even be noticed. Drusen can be seen during a dilated eye exam using an ophthalmoscope, a device that allows the doctor to see the retina and back of the eye. The ophthalmologist may also ask you questions about any other symptoms you might be experiencing.

Some people with optic nerve drusen might experience loss of peripheral vision and occasional flickering or graying of vision. Drusen develop as people age. People over the age of 60 are at the highest risk of having drusen. Optic nerve drusen can sometimes blur the margins of the optic nerve. When this happens, it might resemble another eye condition called papilledema. Papilledema is caused by swelling of the optic nerve. This is more common in children than adults. There is no treatment available for drusen at this time.

However, someone diagnosed with soft drusen may be asked to take a specialized combination of vitamins and minerals that have shown promise in slowing a certain type of age-related macular degeneration. The formulation includes vitamins C and E, copper, zinc and a pair of plant pigments called lutein and zeaxanthin, all in specific proportions. Be sure to ask if the drusen found in your eyes are hard or soft, as each type signals a different level of risk. And be vigilant about all follow-up visits to monitor your progress.

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