Degeneration of periphral retina

[Susanlh]

I was recently diagnosed with a degeneration of peripheral retina and Drusen of Optic Disc.  When I asked what this means for me, the doctor was not very clear.  Can you please tell me what these two diagnoses mean to me?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

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[Susanlh]

Thank you for the information.  I do have follow up appointments with both a glaucoma specialist and a retinal specialist but thought I would see what I could learn prior to those appointments.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Most cases of peripheral retina degeneration are not serious. However to confirm this you will need to ask the Eye MD that used the term. Call his/her office and ask for clarification.

Optic nerve drusen are yellow crystals within the optic nerve (look like rock candy). They can interfer with some tests for glaucoma, can cause the optic nerve to look swollen when it really isn't and in very rare cases cause neovascular membranes of the optic nerve and/or macula. There is no treatment for ON Drusen.

Good to Google IMAGES and type in "optic nerve drusen" to see them and "peripheral retinal degeneration" to see it.

JCH III MD

[AnnaE]

You really need an explanation from the doctor who examined you. If you call him, and he is not clear, get a second opinion. Look for a retina specialist at www.aao.org.

Dr. Hagan will also respond to your question.

Write back if you need to.

I hope you get the best medical help possible.