New Insights Into EMAP and Its Relationship to AMD

New research raises questions about the classification of extensive macular atrophy with pseudodrusen-like appearance and its potential implications for interpreting geographic atrophy clinical trial results.

By: Alessandro Feo, MD, Patricio G. Schlottmann, MD

Retinal Physician November 11, 2026

5 Key Takeaways

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Extensive macular atrophy with pseudodrusen-like appearance (EMAP) was first described in 2009 as a potentially distinct macular dystrophy.
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EMAP is characterized by vertical macular atrophy, pseudodrusen-like deposits, and negative genetic testing.
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Alessandro Feo said emerging reports suggest EMAP may be a variant or subtype of late atrophic age-related macular degeneration.
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EMAP shares presumed basal laminar deposits with age-related macular degeneration, and complement involvement in EMAP pathogenesis has been reported.
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Feo said anticomplement trials that included diffuse trickling geographic atrophy should be reevaluated because some participants may have had EMAP.

Patricio G. Schlottmann, MD

Affiliations: Charles Centro Oftalmológico

Specialties: Ophthalmology

Bio: Patricio G. Schlottmann, MD, is an ophthalmologist associated with Charles Centro Oftalmológico in Argentina. He received his medical degree from the University of Buenos Aires in 1998 and completed formative clinical training at Santa Lucía Hospital in Buenos Aires, Argentina’s largest public eye hospital. Dr. Schlottmann’s work has centered on ophthalmic care, diagnostic technology, and clinical research. His interest in ocular imaging began during specialist training with exposure to Stratus OCT technology, which led to his first publication in Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science and helped shape a career combining clinical practice with research.

New Insights Into EMAP and Its Relationship to AMD

5 Key Takeaways

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