The 4 stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD): a clear guide (2026)

In short: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) progresses through early, intermediate and late stages, defined by changes in the retina (drusen) and whether central vision is lost. Late AMD has two forms: dry (geographic atrophy) and wet (neovascular).

The 4 stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

Stage	What happens
Early AMD	Medium-sized deposits (drusen) under the retina with no vision loss. Often found only on a routine eye exam.
Intermediate AMD	Large drusen and/or pigment changes; some people notice mild blurring of central vision. Risk of progression rises.
Late AMD — dry (geographic atrophy)	Retinal cells break down, causing a gradual loss of central vision over months to years.
Late AMD — wet (neovascular)	Abnormal blood vessels leak under the retina, causing rapid central vision loss — a medical urgency treated with anti-VEGF injections.

Source: AREDS/AREDS2 classification. Diagnosed by an ophthalmologist with OCT imaging. Staging is a clinical assessment — only a qualified specialist can stage your condition.

Where stem-cell therapy fits

Conventional, stage-appropriate treatment is the foundation for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Stem-cell therapy is investigational for this condition — not an approved cure. For an honest, sourced look at the evidence, cost and open trials, see stem cell therapy for Macular Degeneration & Vision and what the success-rate data really shows.

age-related macular degeneration (AMD) stages — common questions

How many stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are there?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is typically described in 4 stages using the AREDS early / intermediate / late stages. The stages chart how the condition progresses; the pace varies a lot between individuals.

What is the final stage of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?

The most advanced stage is “wet (neovascular)” — Abnormal blood vessels leak under the retina, causing rapid central vision loss — a medical urgency treated with anti-VEGF injections.

Can stem cell therapy help with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?

Stem-cell therapy for Macular Degeneration & Vision is investigational, not an approved cure — see our honest, sourced overview of stem cell therapy for Macular Degeneration & Vision (evidence, cost and trials) before considering it.