Karl R. Olsen, MD Retina Vitreous Consultants Participating in Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Research Study

Pittsburgh area individuals with wet AMD are needed to participate in this clinical research study.

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) February 25, 2006 -- Karl R. Olsen, MD Retina Vitreous Consultants is one of a select group of research centers in the United States and Canada involved in the Orchid Study for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The purpose of the Orchid Study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of an investigational medication for AMD. The Orchid Study is intended for individuals with the “wet” form of AMD who are at least age 50. Individuals interested in learning more about the Orchid Study can speak to the Pittsburgh area research center, Karl R. Olsen, MD Retina Vitreous Consultants, at 412-683-5300].

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is the most common cause of vision loss in people over age 65 and the leading cause of blindness in people over age 50. More than two million individuals in North America experience vision loss due to AMD. In the next several decades, individuals in their 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, and older will comprise a larger proportion of the population in North America. As a result, vision loss due to AMD will be an increasing social concern.

Symptoms of wet AMD include: blurry central vision, straight lines appearing wavy, or a gray or black blind spot in central vision. There is no pain or other sensation associated with wet AMD. There is no cure for AMD. There are treatments that aim to stop AMD from getting worse, but vision loss that has already occurred may not be reversible. Not all treatments work for all cases of AMD, and some cases of AMD will not respond to any treatment.

The Orchid Study which includes Karl R. Olsen, MD Retina Vitreous Consultants in Pittsburgh, PA is seeking to evaluate an investigational medication’s safety and effectiveness for the “wet” form of AMD. There are approximately 75 participating study centers in the United States and Canada. Approximately 360 individuals in North America will participate in this study. Potential study volunteers should be at least age 50, diagnosed with wet AMD or experiencing symptoms. Qualified volunteers must also have experienced a decrease in vision within the past three months because of their wet AMD.
Participation in the Orchid Study involves approximately 28 office visits over a two-year period. Qualified participants will receive study-related medical care, including eye exams, lab tests, and study medication at no cost, and may be reimbursed for time and travel. Potential study volunteers can receive more information and be screened for possible participation at Karl R. Olsen, MD Retina Vitreous Consultants. Individuals at least age 50 with wet AMD, or their loved ones, can contact Karl R. Olsen, MD Retina Vitreous Consultants for more information or prescreening at 412-683-5300].

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