Geographic atrophy in dry AMD develops primarily due to:

• A Complement-mediated retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell death with photoreceptor atrophy ✓
• B VEGF-driven neovascularization eroding the photoreceptor layer
• C Choroidal ischemia from progressive arteriolar sclerosis
• D Müller cell apoptosis triggered by subretinal lipid exudates

Explanation

Geographic atrophy results from progressive loss of RPE cells and overlying photoreceptors, with a central role of complement dysregulation — particularly the complement factor H (CFH) polymorphism rs1061170 — driving chronic inflammation. Drusen represent accumulations of complement-rich deposits between RPE and Bruch's membrane. Death of RPE removes trophic support for photoreceptors, causing the well-demarcated areas of outer retinal atrophy characteristic of GA.

Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.