Join us for an insightful conversation with two leading experts in eye care, Dr. Jennifer Lyerly and Dr. Mark Dunbar, as they shed light on the often-overlooked topic of geographic atrophy. Historically, geographic atrophy presented challenges with limited treatment options, but recent scientific breakthroughs have brought newfound hope. With decades of experience and expertise, Dr. Dunbar, from the prestigious Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, shares his insights. Dr. Lyerly guides the discussion, exploring prevalence, detection challenges, early intervention, and the pivotal role of advanced imaging. Discover the evolving role of optometrists in managing geographic atrophy as we uncover the complexities of this condition.

In Partnership with Iveric Bio, An Astellas Company

IZERVAY (avacincaptad pegol intravitreal solution) is a prescription eye injection, used to treat geographic atrophy (GA), the advanced form of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Introducing Dr. Mark Dunbar’s Background

Dr. Jennifer Lyerly:

We are discussing a topic we all encounter in our clinical practice, but we may not have devoted much thought to how we, as doctors, handle it. In the past, there wasn’t much we could do about it. It doesn’t occupy as much brain space when you don’t have a treatment. We see it, but once we diagnose it, the conversation ends. Geographic atrophy is the focus now, with exciting breakthroughs in our science and clinical abilities. But our attention needs to shift towards better diagnosing and detecting it.

Let’s begin by introducing yourself. Could you tell us about your practice and how you became an expert in retinal care?

Mark T Dunbar, OD, FAAO

Dr. Mark Dunbar:

I wouldn’t call myself an expert, but I have a deep interest in the field of retina. I practice at the Baskin Palmer Eye Institute, part of the University of Miami’s Department of Ophthalmology.

I’ve been with them for over 35 years. I moved here in the mid to late ’80s. Some of you might remember Omni Eye Services. I was a resident at the Omni in Lexington. This was really the early days of co-management. My mentors, like Paula Jamie and others, had all trained at Bascom Palmer.

So, I had the opportunity to go there, and I thought I would spend a couple of years at Bascom Palmer and then move on. But before I knew it, 35 years had passed, and I’m still there. In my early years, I worked in the retina clinic with some of the giants in the field.

Although I’m known for my work in retina, I also provide primary eye care. I see a lot of glaucoma patients,