Unit 7: Gradual Loss of Vision
2: Age-related Macula Degeneration (AMD)
Anatomy
- The macula is located at the posterior pole of the eye, and is responsible for central vision.
- In the centre of the macula is the fovea, which is specialised for high acuity vision.
- The rest of the retina provides peripheral vision.
- Cones are concentrated at the macula, and are responsible for acuity and colour perception.
- Rods are distributed throughout the retina, providing low light vision and movement detection.
Anatomy of the eye showing macula and fovea at the posterior pole of the eye
Adapted from: Drawing of the Eye, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, used under CC BY 2.0 / Macula and fovea label highlighted.
Retina image of the macula and fovea
Source: National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health