Arcadia, CA (PRWEB) July 09, 2013

Retina Institute (RIC) now offers RetnaGene, a genetic test to evaluate the risk of a patient with early age-related macular degeneration (AMD) progressing to advanced choroidal neovascular disease within 2, 5, and 10 years. Efficient monitoring of this chronic disease greatly reduces the chances of partial or complete loss of vision in patients.

"RetnaGene testing represents the leading edge of clinically impactful genetic medicine in ophthalmology, stated RIC surgeon, Joshua Hedaya, MD. This technology will fundamentally improve our ability to treat and prevent vision loss from AMD. It is a very exciting time for doctors and patients alike."

The reported risk scores for developing CNV are based on four risk factors including genotype, phenotype, age and environmental factors such as smoking.

With the information provided by the RetnaGene test, RIC can customize an approach to monitoring and treatment for each individual patient based on their reported risk scores for disease progression. This provides a tremendous advantage when managing a condition such as AMD, in which loss of vision is often severe, unpredictable, and variably responsive to treatment.

With this test, RIC can safely reduce the screening burden for lower risk patients, many of whom may have difficulty complying with frequent office visits. This additional genetic data point allows for a more informed decision regarding initiation of treatment in patients with equivocal findings on standard diagnostic tests.

For further information about RetnaGene or to refer a patient to RIC for AMD screening, please contact RIC at 800-898-2020. Testing is available at all RIC locations, and is performed at no or minimal cost to patients.

About Retina Institute The Retina Institute was founded on a model of exceptional patient care and clinical excellence and is recognized as one of the nations leading practices specializing in vitreoretinal diseases. With 15 highly-trained retina surgeons in 24 centers, Retina Institute is committed to innovation, compassion and superior results, and works in close partnership with each other and with referring doctors to achieve the best possible outcome for every patient. For more information visit retina2020.com.

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Retina Institute of California Advances Genetic Diagnostics for Treatment of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

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