C-reactive proteins an indicator of increased risk of AMD

Results from five studies show that high levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) is a predictor of an increased risk of age-related macular degeneration. CRP is a protein that is found in the blood and measures the general level of inflammation. Data from the studies reveals that patients with high levels of CRP had a 50% increase in developing macular degeneration and their odds of developing neovascular AMD almost doubled. Prior research had established that inflammation does play a role in the beginnings of AMD with drusen, the precursor tissue, containing a range of pro-inflammatory proteins one of which is CRP. Future studies might examine whether measurements of CRP would help to encourage individuals with higher levels of CRP to make lifestyle changes or encourage them to have regular eye exams to prevent future vision loss from macular degeneration.*