Macular Pucker or Epi-Retinal Membrane

Macular Pucker or Epi-Retinal Membrane is a cellophane-like membrane that forms over the Macula.  It is typically a slow-progressing problem that affects the central vision by causing blur and distortion.  As it progresses, the traction of the membrane on the Macula may cause swelling of the Macula.

Macular Pucker is most often seen in people over 75 years of age.  Its exact cause is not really known, but it is thought to be associated with certain eye problems such as Diabetic Retinopathy, Posterior Vitreous Detachment, Retinal Detachment as well as other conditions.

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Signs and Symptoms of Macular Pucker

The signs and symptoms of Macular Pucker may include:

• Blurred Vision
• Double Vision that is noticeable even with one eye covered
• Distorted Vision so that straight lines appear bent or wavy

Diagnosis and Treatment of Macular Pucker

Macular Pucker is readily diagnosed through Visual Acuity testing in conjunction with an Amsler Grid Test, a dilated pupil examination of the Macula with an Ophthalmoscope and Slit Lamp High Magnification Fundus Lens during which a “cellophane like glistening” appearance will be observed in the Macula. If there is concern about swelling it may be necessary to have an Intravenous Fluorescein Angiogram (IVF) and/or Ocular Coherence Tomogram (OCT).

If there is a considerable loss of vision, a Retinal Surgeon can perform a “membrane peeling,” but it is generally recommended that patient wait until the deterioration of vision causes a meaningful change to the patient’s lifestyle in order to justify the risk of this procedure.

If you, a family member or friend is concerned about Macular Disease please schedule an appointment with Center for Sight Retinal Specialist Robert Kelly, M.D. by calling Center for Sight in Fall River, Massachusetts at 508.730.2020.

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Center for Sight is conveniently located for patients in need of evaluation and diagnosis of a Macular Pucker or Epi-Retinal Membrane in Massachusetts or Rhode Island from Attleboro, Fairhaven, Fall River, Franklin, Mansfield, Marion, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Milford, New Bedford, North Attleboro, North Dartmouth, Norton, Oxford, Rehobeth, Somerset, Swansea, Taunton, Walpole, Whitinsville, Woonsocket, Providence, Smithfield, Westport, Lakeville, Dighton, Little Compton, and Tiverton.

Macular Disease

Macular Hole

Macular Pucker

Central Serous Chorioretinopathy