EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE

What is an Epiretinal Membrane?

An Epiretinal Membrane is a thin film of fibrous tissue that forms a delicate scar or membrane at the back of your eye. The scar tissue looks like crinkled cellophane lying on top of the retina. This membrane pulls up on the central part of the retina (Macula). It distorts vision so objects may appear blurred or crooked.

Common Terms for Epiretinal Membrane

Epiretinal Membrane is also called a

Macular Pucker
Premacular Fibrosis,
Surface Wrinkling Retinopathy, or
Cellophane Maculopathy

How Does an Epiretinal Membrane Form?

As we grow older, the thick vitreous gel inside the eye begins to shrink and pull away from the retina.

As the vitreous pulls away, small pieces of tissue or cells from the retina and other tissues in the eye are released into the vitreous gel that eventually settles on the macula.

These cells start proliferating and form a thin sheet over the macula.

Causes of Epiretinal Membrane

An Epiretinal Membrane can develop as a consequence of previous eye disorders such as

Retinal Tear or Detachment
Eye Trauma,
Inflammatory Eye Disease,
Blood vessel abnormality, or
Other Conditions.

Symptoms of Epiretinal Membrane

Patients affected by Epiretinal Membrane in the macula would observe:

Blurred vision
Distorted vision (straight lines may appear wavy)
Worsening central Vision

An Epiretinal Membrane does not cause complete blindness as it affects only central vision with peripheral vision remaining unaffected.

How is Epiretinal Membrane Treated?

Treatment is not required for a mild Epiretinal Membrane that has little or no effect on vision. However, when vision declines, surgery is the only treatment option available.

Vitrectomy with Epiretinal membrane peel is the surgical procedure performed to remove the Epiretinal Membrane.