[Genotyping in progressive age-related macular degeneration]

After presenting both the prevalence and the staging of the age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the disease progression is discussed; it is determined primarily by genetic factors but is also influenced by environmental, demographic and behavioral factors. The genes working by means of the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) pathway have critical roles in the drusen initiation in the early AMD stages. After the drusen have accumulated between retinal pigment epithlium (RPE) and Bruch's membrane, the genes acting in the alternative complement pathway are activated so influencing in this way the progression from the intermediate and large drusen to the advanced AMD stages (e.g. the geographic atrophy of the RPE and neovascular stages).