Geographic Atrophy: Early Detection and Patient Awareness Matters

With increased prevalence and more options for intervention, early detection is essential in slowing the progression of GA.

By: Joseph J. Pizzimenti, OD, FAAO, FNAP, FORS, Sherrol A. Reynolds, OD, FAAO, FNAP, FORS

Optometric Management June 2, 2025

5 Key Takeaways

1

Geographic atrophy (GA) is an advanced form of dry age-related macular degeneration affecting over 8 million people globally.
2

Early detection of GA is crucial as it is irreversible and can lead to significant vision impairment within two years.
3

GA accounts for approximately 20% of legal blindness, highlighting the need for timely intervention and monitoring.
4

Optometrists should prioritize education, advanced diagnostics, and timely referrals to improve patient outcomes in GA.
5

Intravitreal complement inhibition pharmacotherapy is a key intervention for patients diagnosed with geographic atrophy.

Joseph J. Pizzimenti

Specialties: Optometry

Bio: Joseph J. Pizzimenti, OD, FAAO, FNAP, FORS, writes on optometric management of retinal disease, including geographic atrophy, an advanced form of dry age-related macular degeneration. His Optometric Management work emphasizes early detection, patient education, multimodal retinal imaging, and timely referral for intravitreal complement-inhibition therapy to help slow disease progression.

Sherrol A. Reynolds

Specialties: Optometry

Bio: Sherrol A. Reynolds, OD, FAAO, FNAP, FORS, is an optometrist who writes on diabetic retinopathy and clinical implications for eye care practice. In Optometric Management, Reynolds has addressed the relationship between glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists and diabetic retinopathy, including considerations for monitoring patients with diabetes and coordinating care with primary care physicians.

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Optometric Management

Geographic Atrophy: Early Detection and Patient Awareness Matters

5 Key Takeaways

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