The rhesus monkey as an animal model for age-related maculopathy

In a survey of 100 rhesus monkeys, the prevalence of macular changes was similar to that in age-related macular degeneration in humans. Ophthalmoscopically visible drusen were observed in 31% of the monkeys. A statistically significant correlation existed between the age of the animals and the degree of drusen. Considering equivalent ages, monkeys appear to develop drusen earlier than humans. Pigment mottling occurred in 10% and hypopigmented spots in 8% of the sample. A dull foveal reflex was seen in 8% and no reflex in 27%. There was a statistically significant correlation between the absence of a reflex and the presence of pigment mottling or hypopigmentation in the macula.