Question 1

what does epiretinal membrane over the mascula mean?

Accepted Answer

Wrinkle on Retina: Macular pucker or epiretinal membrane results in formation of a thin layer of scar tissue which distorts the retina. It is caused by cells migrating through a tiny hole or from inflammation. If the symptoms of blurring and distortion are severe enough, then surgery may be needed.

Question 2

can a epiretinal membrane deteriorate? or can it get better?

Accepted Answer

Mostly stable: This is a condensation of the interface between the vitreous gel and the underlying macula of the retina.  It can occur as a response to surgery, trauma but frequently is spontaneous.  Most stabilize and do not progress.  A smaller number will progress and surgery is generally offered.  Improvement is very rare spontaneously.

Question 3

is epiretinal membrane the same thing as macular pucker?

Accepted Answer

Yes: Yes, both terms describe the same condition. This condition results from a membrane forming from a remnant of vitreous that stays adherent to the retina after the vitreous separates from the retina.  This condition may never cause visual issues, but in some people the membrane will wrinkle and may need to be surgically removed.

Question 4

what is the difference between macular degeneration & epiretinal membrane?

Accepted Answer

Two different condit: Your eye doctor can explain it to you if you ask!
macular degeneration is a more serious condition as it can threaten your vision, so it needs urgent treatment.

Question 5

comparing macular degeneration and epiretinal membrane, which is the most serious and why?

Accepted Answer

Macular degeneration: Macular degeneration occurs mainly in two forms, wet and dry. We can't treat the dry type except to recommend cessation of smoking and add AREDS-formula vitamins to your diet. Wet degeneration can be treated with injections but still results in vision loss. An epiretinal membrane can be fixed surgically, if needed.

Question 6

what does this mean? "epiretinal membrane over the mascular area"?

Accepted Answer

Membrane atop macula: Normally the vitreous gel which fills the eye sits on top of the macular (and the rest of the retina) with no direct connection.  But sometimes, usually with age, trauma or surgery on the interior of the eye, there is  a condensation of the vitreous gel edge in this area which can cause a wrinkling of the retina and visual distortion.  This is an epiretinal membrane.

Question 7

i have a epiretinal membrane. dr said he isn't too concerned but will check it in a year. why does it need to be monitored?

Accepted Answer

Monitor for vision : Most empire tonal membranes do not require intervention. However if it progresses causing vision distortion, vitreomacular traction, retinal swelling or intraretinal cystic changes then removal may be indicated. This is surgery performed only by a vitreoretinal specialist.

Question 8

can epiretinal membrane affect peripheral vision?

Accepted Answer

Not by itself: If an epiretinal membrane is the only pathology in the back of the eye, then the peripheral vision will be unaffected.  Epiretinal membranes are commonly present in association with other retinal problems which may affect the peripheral vision although the membrane did not cause that.

Question 9

can a moderate epiretinal membrane cause loss of depth perception.

Accepted Answer

Eyes: Yes!
At age 71 I have been wearing glasses since age 6 and have had changes made more often than I can remember.
Please see your eye doctor as soon as you can!.

Question 10

what to do if i have epiretinal membrane peel and vitrectomy plus a new lense?

Accepted Answer

Epiretinal Membrane: Sounds like your doctor may have recommended surgery for your epiretinal membrane or macular pucker (ERM) as it is possibly affecting your vision.  Not sure what you are asking re 'what to do'.  Are you asking if you should have the surgery or are you asking what you can do after surgery?  Deciding to have a surgical procedure such as ERM repair should be discussed in detail with your eye surgeon.

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Alternative treatments for epiretinal membrane

A member asked:

What does epiretinal membrane over the mascula mean?

A member asked:

Can a epiretinal membrane deteriorate? or can it get better?

A member asked:

Is epiretinal membrane the same thing as macular pucker?

A member asked:

What is the difference between macular degeneration & epiretinal membrane?

A member asked:

Comparing macular degeneration and epiretinal membrane, which is the most serious and why?

A member asked:

What does this mean? "epiretinal membrane over the mascular area"?

A member asked:

I have a epiretinal membrane. dr said he isn't too concerned but will check it in a year. why does it need to be monitored?

A member asked:

Can epiretinal membrane affect peripheral vision?

A member asked:

Can a moderate epiretinal membrane cause loss of depth perception.

A member asked:

What to do if i have epiretinal membrane peel and vitrectomy plus a new lense?

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