Understanding Epiretinal Membranes
Epiretinal membranes are thin layers of scar tissue that develop across the central fixation point (macula) of the eye. As it affects the most vital area of central fixation, visual symptoms can affect activities of daily life significantly.
An epiretinal membrane causes distortion and wrinkling of the macular surface, resulting in blurred and distorted vision.
An OCT scan shows how an epiretinal membrane can cause distortion and swelling of the macula.
Causes
The primary cause of epiretinal membranes is age-related changes in the eye. However, they can also develop in response to other eye conditions or injuries, leading to the formation of scar tissue on the macula.
Symptoms
Epiretinal Membrane Treatment
If an epiretinal membrane causes significant blurring or distortion of vision that affects daily life, surgical intervention may be necessary. Vitrectomy surgery is commonly performed to remove the membrane and restore clear vision. Seeking early treatment is crucial to prevent permanent damage to the macula.
FAQs
Epiretinal membranes can have a large range of severity and symptoms. Those that are mild and cause very few symptoms or no symptom may be monitored.
However, if vision is significantly blurred or distorted, surgery should be considered. In addition, if the epiretinal membrane causes significant swelling of the macula, surgery should also be considered to prevent permanent damage from occurring.
Normal appearance of amsler chart.
Abnormal distortion of amsler chart suggests macular disease.
Vitrectomy surgery is currently the only proven effective treatment as these membranes have to be peeled off manually. Eye-drops, tablets and vitamin supplements are not effective in the treatment of epiretinal membranes.