Rapid Developments in Geographic Atrophy

Current and emerging GA treatments offer hope to affected patients and demonstrate ongoing innovation in this field.

By: Sidra Zafar, MD, Sunir Garg, MD, FACS, FASRS

Ophthalmology Management July 1, 2025 Vol 29, Issue July/August 2025 Page(s): 14, 15, 16, 17

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Geographic atrophy (GA) is a major cause of blindness, affecting approximately 288 million people by 2040 due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
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Current treatments like Syfovre and Izervay slow GA progression but do not prevent or reverse the condition, highlighting the need for ongoing research.
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Photobiomodulation therapy has shown promise in improving visual acuity and reducing GA development, with significant benefits reported in clinical trials.
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The FDA approved pegcetacoplan and avacincaptad pegol in 2023, marking significant advancements in the treatment options available for GA.
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Safety concerns have emerged with pegcetacoplan, including reports of severe retinal vasculitis, prompting cautious administration practices among specialists.

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