Effects of Lutein Supplementation on Macular Pigment Optical Density and Visual Acuity in Patients With Age-related Macular Degeneration

Age-Related Macular Degeneration Clinical Trial

Official title: Effects of Lutein Supplementation on Macular Pigment Optical Density and Visual Acuity in Patients With Age-related Macular Degeneration

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

The macular pigment (MP) in humans consists of the yellow, blue-absorbing carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. The highest concentrations of lutein and zeaxanthin are found in the fovea. Since light entering the eye passes through the MP before reaching the photo receptors it absorbs a significant portion of short-wavelength light. There is evidence that this absorbing properties of the MP as well as the ability of inactivating highly reactive oxygen species are protective for the retina.

Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness among developed countries. The pathogenesis of this disease remains unknown. There is, however, evidence that low fruit and vegetable consumption increases the risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Accordingly, it has been hypothesized that lutein supplementation may be beneficial in AMD. The present study investigates whether 6 months lutein supplementation increases MP optical density (OD), influences visual acuity, depth and dimension of central scotoma and alters symptoms in patients with AMD.

Clinical Trial Description

n/a

Study Design

Allocation: Randomized, Endpoint Classification: Safety Study, Intervention Model: Single Group Assignment, Masking: Double Blind (Subject, Caregiver, Investigator, Outcomes Assessor), Primary Purpose: Prevention

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Age-Related Macular Degeneration
• Macular Degeneration

• NCT number: NCT00879671
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: Medical University of Vienna
• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Start date: November 2006
• Completion date: May 2011