Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Scientometric Analysis

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Bibliometrics
• Medical Research Trends

Background:

• Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is a leading cause of irreversible central vision loss in working-age adults globally.
• Effective research strategic planning for ARMD necessitates a comprehensive understanding of historical efforts and identification of knowledge gaps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a bibliometric analysis of scientific publications on ARMD from 1993 to 2013.
• To identify key trends, research directions, and critical gaps in the field of ARMD.
• To provide insights for future large-scale research strategic planning in ARMD.

Main Methods:

• Bibliometric analysis of scientific articles on ARMD sourced from the Institute for Scientific Information (ISI).
• Analysis of publication trends, citation impact, influential authors, and document relationships.
• Examination of research structure, historical development, and thematic evolution within ARMD research.

Main Results:

• A consistent increase in the number of published articles on ARMD was observed over the study period.
• Highly cited publications predominantly focused on genetic epidemiology and clinical research aspects of ARMD.
• A recent trend towards biomarker research in ARMD has emerged in the last three years of the study.

Conclusions:

• This scientometric survey provides a comprehensive overview of ARMD research characteristics and trends.
• Identified research gaps can guide future scientific endeavors and strategic planning for ARMD.
• Understanding research trajectories is crucial for advancing the field and combating ARMD-related blindness.