Association Between High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Levels And Risk Of Macular Degeneration

Main Category: Eye Health / Blindness
Article Date: 12 Feb 2013 - 2:00 PST


Vinod P. Mitta, M.D., M.P.H., of the Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, and colleagues investigated the relationship between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and the future risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in U.S. men and women (Online First).

Inflammation plays a role in the incidence and progression of AMD, the leading cause of blindness among older adults in the United States, according to the study background. The study was an analysis of prospective nested case-control data from the Women's Health Study and four other study groups.  

"This study adds to the evidence that elevated levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) predict future risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This information might shed light on underlying pathological mechanisms involving inflammation and could be of clinical utility in the identification of persons at high risk of AMD who may benefit from increased adherence to lifestyle recommendations, eye examination schedules, and therapeutic protocols," the study concludes.

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