An epiretinal membrane (ERM), or "macular pucker", is a translucent, plastic-wrap like tissue that forms over the macula (central vision area). This slow progressing problem causes the vision to be blurry and distorted. As the problem continues, traction on the macula may cause swelling.

Epiretinal membranes occur most often in individuals over 65 years of age and may be associated with retinal detachments, trauma, diabetic retinopathy, and other problems.

Signs and Symptoms
blurred vision, distorted vision
double vision

Diagnosis
An epiretinal membrane is detected during a normal fundus examination. If swelling is suspected, a fluorescein angiogram or optical coherence tomography (OCT) may be performed.

Treatment
It is normal for the doctor to withold treatment until the patient's vision is impaired to the point where the risk of treatment is jutified by the improvement. Once treatment is justified, a procedure called vitrectomy surgery with membrane peeling is done in the operating room. Small incisions are made in the eye, the membrane is peeled off in conjunction with a vitrectomy (removing the vitreous gel).

The Retina Eye Center provides this information for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as medical advice. Information published on this website is not intended to replace, supplant, or augment a consultation with an retina professional regarding the viewer's own medical care. The Retina Eye Center disclaims any and all liability for injury or other damages that could result from use of the information obtained from this site.