About Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy

What is Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy?

Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy (BVMD) is a rare, inherited eye disorder that affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. It is caused by a mutation in the BEST1 gene, which is responsible for producing a protein that helps maintain the health of the macula. Symptoms of BVMD include a yellowish spot in the center of the macula, blurred vision, and difficulty reading or recognizing faces. Treatment for BVMD is limited, but may include laser therapy, photodynamic therapy, and vitamin and mineral supplements.

What are the symptoms of Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy?

The primary symptom of Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy (BVMD) is a yellowish, egg-shaped lesion in the macula, which is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Other symptoms may include blurred vision, difficulty reading, difficulty recognizing faces, and difficulty adapting to low light levels. In some cases, the lesion may progress to a more advanced stage, resulting in a decrease in central vision.

What are the causes of Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy?

Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy (BVMD) is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the BEST1 gene. The BEST1 gene provides instructions for making a protein called bestrophin-1, which is found in the cells of the retina. Mutations in this gene lead to the production of an abnormal version of the protein, which disrupts the normal functioning of the retina and causes the characteristic features of BVMD.

What are the treatments for Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy?

1. Vitamin A supplementation: Vitamin A supplementation is the mainstay of treatment for Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy. Vitamin A helps to slow the progression of the disease and can improve vision in some cases.

2. Photodynamic therapy: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a laser treatment that can be used to treat Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy. PDT works by targeting and destroying abnormal blood vessels that form in the macula.

3. Anti-VEGF therapy: Anti-VEGF therapy is a type of injection that can be used to treat Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy. Anti-VEGF therapy works by blocking the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the macula.

4. Surgery: Surgery may be recommended in some cases of Best Vitelliform Macular

What are the risk factors for Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy?

The primary risk factor for Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy (BVMD) is a genetic mutation in the BEST1 gene. This gene mutation is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning that a person only needs to inherit one copy of the mutated gene from one parent to be at risk for developing BVMD. Other risk factors include family history of BVMD, age, and gender.

Is there a cure/medications for Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy?

At this time, there is no cure for Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy. However, there are medications that can help slow the progression of the disease and improve vision. These medications include anti-VEGF drugs, such as ranibizumab, bevacizumab, and aflibercept, as well as corticosteroids. Additionally, laser photocoagulation and photodynamic therapy may be used to treat the disease.