A growing body of evidence suggests that both genetic and nutritional factors contribute to the development and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). To some extent, AMD prevention and management may be nutrition-responsive. This course discusses the epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of AMD with an emphasis on clinical application of new knowledge. Case examples are used to illustrate clinical applications.
1. Describe the burden of AMD in the US and the world.
of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
3. Describe the basic principles of molecular genetics in AMD.
including interpretation of findings in AMD.
6. Interpret the test results for angiography (both FA and ICGA).
7. Apply new technologies in the optometric management of AMD.
Dr. Joseph J. Pizzimenti is a full-time faculty member at the University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry (UIWRSO). He received his Doctor of Optometry from the Illinois College of Optometry, and completed a residency in Low Vision and Ocular Disease at the University of Houston. Dr. Pizzimenti is a Fellow of both the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) and the Optometric Retina Society (ORS), serving as ORS President from 2012-2014.
Dr. Pizzimenti’s areas of research interest include diabetes, age-related macular degeneration, vitreomacular adhesion, and low vision. His scientific articles have appeared in a host of peer- reviewed journals. Dr. Pizzimenti was awarded a Fellowship by the World Council of Optometry in 2006, resulting in an appointment to teach and evaluate optometric education programs in Central Europe. He is involved in the both the didactic and clinical education at UIWRSO and the UIW Eye Institute.