Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD)

Macular Pigment Density (MPOD) is a measure of the density of Macular Pigment (MP) in the center of the retina. Macular pigment absorbs damaging blue light. It functions a little like the eye’s own internal “sunglasses” and the denser the MP the more protective. Low or decreased MPOD is a risk factor for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD causes gradual and often complete vision loss.

Healthy macular pigment enables clear 20/20 vision and vivid color vision. When macular pigment density decreases, vision is affected in the following ways:

• Decreased visual acuity resulting in less clear vision perception

• Less contrast sensitivity (harder to see a gray car on a gray road in the rain)

• Slower glare recovery after viewing bright lights (bothered by headlights while driving at night)

• Changes in light sensitivity

• Difficulty with night vision
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To support healthy macular pigment, patients must have the proper amounts of zeaxanthin and lutein. Because the body does not make these antioxidants on its own, they must be ingested. Lutein is commonly found in leafy greens, while brightly colored vegetables like corn and peppers contain zeaxanthin. It can be difficult to get the amounts of these retinal carotenoids to optimal levels in a regular diet. This is why we are proud to offer EyePromise Nutraceutical supplements to our patients. We are very excited to utilize the latest in macular pigment measurement, the QuantifEye MPS II. The QuantifEye MPS II densitometer is the most reliable and accurate device for measuring Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD). This test can be completed along with your routine eye exam.