Which type of macular degeneration is associated with new abnormal vessels that can leak and cause scarring?

Wet macular degeneration is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina, a process known as choroidal neovascularization. These new vessels are fragile and prone to leaking fluid and blood, leading to swelling and scarring in the macula. This condition is often more aggressive than its counterpart, dry macular degeneration, which typically involves the accumulation of drusen and gradual thinning of the retina without new vessel growth.

Additionally, exudative macular degeneration is another term frequently associated with wet macular degeneration, as it describes the leakage from the abnormal vessels. However, the terminology "wet macular degeneration" is widely recognized and succinctly encapsulates the nature of the condition, aligning it directly with the pathological mechanisms involved.

Rhegmatogenous degeneration does not pertain to macular degeneration; rather, it refers to a type of retinal detachment caused by a tear or break in the retina. Thus, wet macular degeneration stands out as the correct answer due to its defining feature of new, unhealthy vascular growth causing leakage and potential vision loss.