Abstract
The purpose of this protocol proposal is to suggest a new non-invasive combined therapeutic approach for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), an eye disease with no approved treatment or cure. A nutraceutical approach involving dietary supplementation of antioxidants can reduce its risk. Also, photobiomodulation (PBM, or LLLT) has shown promising results with the advantage of non-invasiveness. We present a clinical case study which combines a nutraceutical approach with photobiomodulation. Nine PBM cycles were administered to the patient over one month, and lutein, resveratrol and Vaccinium myrtillus supplements for three months. After one month and after six months, the OCT showed reduced drusen. The patient obtained subjectively improved vision, less eye strain, more color contrast, higher definition and a better far and near uncorrected visual acuity. Amsler grid test was regular. Contrast sensitivity improved from 1.8 to 2.0. Outcomes remained stable at the 6-month follow-up.
This case demonstrated a successful non-invasive treatment with improved quality of vision in dry AMD. A larger population followed over a long-term period is warranted. Irradiation, along with the support of nutraceuticals, could therefore offer a new non-invasive, adverse-effect- free means of stimulating retinal stem cells to regenerate.
