What is it?
An epiretinal membrane, also called macular pucker, is a thin, transparent layer of tissue that forms on the surface of the macula. As it contracts, it can wrinkle the retina beneath it and affect central vision.
Symptoms
Many people have no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include blurred central vision, distortion, straight lines that look wavy, or objects that look a different size in each eye.
Possible causes
Most epiretinal membranes are associated with age-related changes in the vitreous gel. They can also occur after a retinal tear or detachment, inflammation inside the eye, retinal vascular disease or eye surgery.
Risk factors
They become more common with age and after previous retinal conditions or eye surgery.
Diagnosis
The membrane is seen during an examination of the macula and confirmed with optical coherence tomography (OCT), which shows the membrane and its effect on the retina.
Treatment options
If symptoms are mild, regular monitoring is often enough. When distortion or blurred vision interferes with daily life, vitrectomy with peeling of the membrane may be considered.
When urgent evaluation may be needed
An epiretinal membrane is usually not an emergency. Any sudden change in vision, however, should be assessed promptly.
Follow-up
Monitoring intervals are set by the eye doctor. After surgery, vision often improves gradually over several months, and some distortion may remain.
Information on this website is educational and does not replace an in-person medical examination, diagnosis or individual medical advice.