2: Is Geographic Atrophy a Peripheral Retinal Disease?

In Episode 2 of From Paper to Clinic, host Hamza Shah, OD, MS, FAAO, is joined by Raman Bhakhri, OD, FAAO, to discuss geographic atrophy. In their conversation, they discuss the theory that peripheral retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells might contribute to macular geographic atrophy (GA) by migrating inadequately.

They also discuss the analogy with limbal stem cells in the cornea and the importance of monitoring the peripheral retina. Bakri highlights the limitations of current research, such as the lack of clinical trials and the applicability of animal studies to humans, and the pair explores potential new therapeutic strategies and the role of optometrists in patient care, emphasizing the importance of preventive medicine and low-vision assistance.

The paper inspiring this discussion is "Is geographic atrophy a peripheral retinal disease?" from Del Priore, published in Ophthalmology: Retina.