Tamarind Optical Has the Ability to Test for AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration).

Macula Risk is a genetic test to help identity and manage patients at risk for AMD progression. It both estimates risk of disease progression and recommends the appropriate eye vitamins.

Macula Risk estimates your 10-year risk of progression to advanced AMD (wet AMD or geographic atrophy) based on your genotype. This estimation combines genetics with non- genetic risk factors such as age, height, weight, and smoking history.

Genetic research shows that zinc based AREDS/AREDS2 eye vitamins like Vitalux or PreserVision are not safe for 15% of patients. For AMD patients with a specific genotype, the risk of developing wet AMD is tripled when taking these zinc containing formulations. 

Tamarind Optical Services in Cape Breton offer a wide range of eye-related services including AMD testing, Eye Exams, Eye Screenings, Eye Treatment, Contact Lens Service, Prescription Glasses, and Prescription Sunglasses for men, women, and youth, not to mention seniors.

What Is The Macula?

The macula is an oval-shaped yellow spot in the eye, located near the center of the retina, which is the layer of tissue light-sensitive located toward the back of the eye.

The macula acts as protective sunglasses to the eye by absorbing harmful blue and ultraviolet light. and plays an important role in clear, detailed central vision. The macula is an essential component for healthy vision.

Macula Testing

Macula risk is a proprietary DNA test used to determine the risk level of vision loss in patients who are diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

AMD is a genetic eye condition that slowly destroys the macula. If left untreated, AMD can lead to severe vision loss. Studies show that roughly one in five patients is at high risk for vision loss due to AMD.

Macula risk testing identifies patients who have the highest risk for losing their vision from AMD. The test assesses AMD from early, intermediate, and advanced stages. The goal of Macula Risk testing is to identify at-risk patients as early as possible. Once AMD genes are identified, patients can begin a disease management plan to help preserve their vision as they age.

Macula Risk

Macula Risk genetic testing helps doctors identify those at high risk for AMD progression. These patients require increased surveillance and early referral to a specialist to preserve their sight.

Patients who are diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are eligible for macula risk testing. Macula risk testing can be obtained by a licensed eye doctor who collects the patient’s DNA sample via a simple cheek swab. The sample and test requisition paperwork are then mailed to the macula risk testing lab. Booking an appointment to test for Macula risk is simple and affordable.

Schedule An Appointment

Please call our office either in Sydney River or Glace Bay to schedule a consultation appointment, and we'll address your needs from there - Sydney 902-564-5332, Glace Bay 902-842-3333