Epiretinal membrane
Quick answer
An epiretinal membrane is a thin layer of scar tissue that forms on the surface of the macula, usually as part of the vitreous's natural aging process, though it can also develop after eye surgery, inflammation, or trauma.
An epiretinal membrane is a thin layer of scar tissue that forms on the surface of the macula, usually as part of the vitreous's natural aging process, though it can also develop after eye surgery, inflammation, or trauma.
As it contracts, this membrane can wrinkle or distort the macula's surface, which often causes blurry vision, distortion of straight lines (which appear wavy), or difficulty reading small print.
Many mild cases only require periodic observation, since they don't always progress. When the visual distortion significantly affects a patient's quality of life, treatment is surgical: a vitrectomy with membrane removal (membrane peeling), which allows the macula to gradually regain its normal shape.