# What is the Macular Test?

Source page: https://www.kudretgozistanbul.com/en/blog/eye-diseases/what-is-the-macular-test

**Author:** Kudret Eye İstanbul | **Medical Approval:** Op. Dr. Mehmet Ali Özdil | **Date:** 2026-09-09

> **Summary:** The macular test, also known as the Amsler grid test, is a simple screening method for macular degeneration, an age-related deterioration of the central retina that can lead to sight loss. The patient looks at a dot in the middle of a squared grid and any bending or breaking of the lines is assessed.

## Quick Facts
- **Onset of macular degeneration:** Generally after the age of fifty, becoming more common with age.
- **Test distance:** Grid held 30 to 40 centimetres from the face, one eye at a time.
- **Types:** Dry (around ninety per cent of cases) and wet (around ten per cent).
- **Home use:** The Amsler test can be done at home; a definite diagnosis needs an ophthalmologist.

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## What Is the Macula?
The macula (macula lutea, "yellow spot") is the central part of the retina. Macular degeneration affects central vision and, untreated, can lead to sight loss. Besides the Amsler test, examination of the back of the eye and optical coherence tomography are used.

## Symptoms
- Vision less clear than before
- Objects look bent and lines broken
- Darkening in front of the eye
- Loss of depth of vision
- Colours looking pale

Similar symptoms can come from cataract or a retinal tear, so a detailed examination is needed.

## Risk Factors
- Age fifty and over
- Systemic conditions affecting vision
- Heavy smoking and drinking
- Genetic predisposition
- High blood pressure

Age and genetics cannot be prevented, but blood pressure control, avoiding harmful habits and filtered sunglasses help.

## Types
- **Dry:** Around ninety per cent of cases.
- **Wet:** Around ten per cent; advances more quickly, can cause sudden sight loss and colour vision problems; new vessels in the retina and macula bleed. Early diagnosis is especially important.

## How to Do the Amsler Grid Test
- Wear your usual lenses or glasses.
- In good light, hold the grid 30 to 40 centimetres in front of the face.
- Cover one eye and focus on the central dot with the other.
- Check whether all four corners of the squares are visible and whether lines are straight or broken.
- Repeat with the other eye.

## Diagnosis and Treatment
- Accurate diagnosis is made with a dilated examination of the back of the eye (drops widen the pupil so the whole retina can be seen), plus additional imaging.
- **Dry form:** No treatment stops it; at the intermediate stage the vitamin and mineral supplement known as the AREDS formula can slow its progression.
- **Wet form:** Intraocular injections (for example Avastin, preventing abnormal vessel growth, swelling and bleeding) and photodynamic therapy (a medication given through a vein followed by low intensity laser). Injections are done after numbing drops; mild discomfort may be felt.
- It cannot be removed completely, but progression can be slowed with treatment suited to the type, sometimes including surgical procedures.

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## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Does macular disease heal completely?**
A: No, but suitable treatment can slow it and preserve vision.

**Q: What is the macular test and can it be done at home?**
A: The Amsler grid test is a simple screening method and can be done at home, although a definite diagnosis needs an examination by an ophthalmologist.

**Q: Who is at risk?**
A: People over fifty, smokers, and people with hypertension or a genetic predisposition.

**Q: Which treatments are applied?**
A: Vitamin and antioxidant supplements in suitable dry-type patients; intraocular anti-VEGF injections in the wet type.

**Q: Can macular degeneration be prevented?**
A: Age and genetics cannot, but a healthy lifestyle and regular eye examinations can reduce the risk.