Macula Edema
What is Macular Edema?
Macular Edema is also called Cystoid Macular Edema or (CME). Macular Edema sets in when blood vessels leak into the eye and form cysts and swelling that obstruct central vision. CME can best be seen from a diagnostic vision test called fluorescein angiography.
Causes of Macular Edema
Cataract surgery or repair of retina detachment
Macular degeneration
Medication side effects
Diabetes
Blocked or clogged veins of the retina
Eye injuries
Diagnosing Macular Edema
During routine dilated eye exams our eye doctors may detect central yellow spots. Depending on the amount of fluid that has leaked these spots may be easy or hard to detect. A fluorescein angiography procedure is conducted where sodium fluorescein dye is injected into an arm or hand and then retina photographs are taken. If there are any abnormalities on the retina, the dye will usually reveal them by leaking, staining or by its inability to get through blocked blood vessels.
Macular Edema Treatments
Retina physicians will provide expert treatment options to deal with macular edema. The treatment type will depend on the severity and progression of the macular edema. Some of the treatment options include:
• Avastin Injections – Which make blood vessels less leaky and decreases macular edema.
• Ocular steroid injections – Used to stabilize the retinal barrier and decrease vascular growth within the eye.
• Anti-inflammatory eye drops (NON-STEROID BASED)-Used to reduce the inflammation of the retina.
• Vitrectomy Surgery: Removes vitreous gel and membranes to allow the retinal to flatten again.
