Expert: Thalmon Campagnoli, MD

Expertise: Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Clinical Trials, and the Future of Vision Care.

Q: Let’s start with the basics. What exactly is AMD?

A: Age-Related Macular Degeneration, or AMD, is a condition that affects the macula, the part of your retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Think of it as the high-definition center of your visual field. When AMD progresses, it can make everyday tasks like reading, driving, or recognizing faces much more difficult. As one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over 50, AMD is now more manageable thanks to today’s advanced treatments and technology.

Q: What should you be on the lookout for?

A: If straight lines start looking wavy, or you notice a blurry or dark spot in the center of your vision, do not ignore it. These could be early signs of AMD. The earlier we detect it, the more options we have to help preserve your sight.

Q: What treatment options are available for you now, and what exciting developments are coming next?

A: For dry AMD, we often recommend specific vitamins and lifestyle changes. For wet AMD and now also for advanced dry AMD, we use injections that help stop abnormal blood vessel growth. Here is where it gets exciting. Florida Retina Institute is part of a groundbreaking clinical trial exploring gene therapy for wet AMD. The goal is to achieve longer-lasting results with fewer injections. It is a big step forward, and we are proud to be part of it.

Q: Where can patients access these clinical trials?

A: Florida Retina Institute is actively enrolling patients in clinical trials at our Orlando and Jacksonville locations. We’re also preparing to launch trials soon at our expanded Wildwood location. These opportunities give patients access to the latest treatments before they become widely available.

Q: What makes Florida Retina Institute stand out in AMD care?

A: We have been dedicated to retina care for over 45 years, with 20 locations across Florida and Georgia and a growing team that includes three new specialists joining by the end of 2025. Our mission is to combine compassionate care with cutting-edge research to preserve sight and enhance lives.

Q: What is something patients might not know about you?

A: I speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish, which helps me connect with a wide range of patients. I am also a big fan of technology, especially when it helps us see the world more clearly. Retina care is where science meets sight, and I love being part of that journey.