retinal cells from degeneration rather than simply managing symptoms, and

toward metabolic and neuroprotective therapies.

stress, and modulate inflammation, PBMT has the potential to improve retinal health and slow the progression of dry AMD. Early clinical studies suggest that this therapy may enhance visual function and stabilise disease in certain patients, particularly those in the early stages.

Future research may focus on:

• Compatibility with other treatments: Photobiomodulation can potentially be used alongside nutritional supplements and other management strategies.

• Optimising wavelength combinations and energy delivery,

• Determining ideal treatment frequency and duration,

LIMITATIONS AND CHALLENGES Despite its promise, photobiomodulation therapy is not yet considered a universal standard of care for dry AMD.

While additional large-scale clinical trials are needed to fully establish its long-term effectiveness, photobiomodulation therapy offers a promising new direction in the management of dry AMD. As research advances, light-based therapies may play an increasingly important role in preserving vision and improving quality of life for individuals affected by this common retinal condition.

• Identifying biomarkers that predict treatment response, and

• Combining PBMT with emerging therapies targeting retinal regeneration.

Some important limitations include:

Advances in retinal imaging and diagnostic technology may also help clinicians better monitor the effects of PBMT and refine treatment strategies.

• Variability in treatment protocols across studies,

• Differences in device technology and wavelengths used,

As clinical evidence continues to expand, photobiomodulation may become an important component of comprehensive AMD management.

• Limited long-term data regarding sustained benefits, and

Dr Nisha Sachdev MBChB PhD FRANZCO is a general ophthalmologist and the founder and Director of City West Eye Specialists in Sydney. Dr Sachdev completed her surgical training in ophthalmology in New Zealand and further subspecialty training in Melbourne.

• Variation in patient response.

CONCLUSION Dry age-related macular degeneration remains a major cause of vision loss worldwide, and current treatment options are limited. Photobiomodulation therapy represents an innovative approach that targets the underlying cellular dysfunction associated with retinal degeneration.

Additionally, PBMT may be less effective in advanced stages of the disease where significant retinal cell loss has already occurred. Further research is needed to determine optimal treatment parameters and identify which patients are most likely to benefit.

She has been involved in many research projects, has taught registrars, presented at international conferences and published numerous research papers. In addition, she is the youngest ophthalmologist to have received the RANZCO Federal Meritorious Services Award for her RANZCO contributions over the past 20 years.

THE FUTURE OF PBMT IN OPHTHALMOLOGY The growing interest in photobiomodulation reflects a broader shift in ophthalmic research

By using low-level light to stimulate mitochondrial activity, reduce oxidative

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