juxtafoveal retinal pigment epithelial atrophy

[Sybex99]

Hiya,
Can someone give me a plain English explanation on what "juxtafoveal retinal pigment epithelial atrophy" is, I have googled on Google and Google Scholar but I still cant work it out and am i supposed to have some kind of treatment or something to fix it or stop it getting worse? I am so lost.

thanks in advance

Syb

[Doreen Fazio, M.D.]

This means that there is decreased retinal pigment near the fovea, which the very center of the retina.  Our sharpest and best vision (reading, threading a needle) comes from the fovea.  Juxtafoveal means that this atrophy is adjacent to the fovea.  Depending on your age, it could be a sign of dry age-related degeneration.  I would see a retina specialist for an evaluation.  To try to prevent worsening, quit smoking if you are a smoker; protect your eyes from UV light; eat a healthy diet (fruits and vegetables, nuts and grains, low fat, fish, not a lot of processed foods); and take antioxidant vitamin supplements, lutein, and fish oil.  Be sure to review your supplements with your primary doctor, to be sure there is no conflict with any prescription medicine.

[Sybex99]

Hiya,
thanks so much for your reply, really appreciate it :)