Our eyes are intricate structures, working together to bring the world into focus. Sometimes, however, subtle changes inside the eye can affect vision. One such change is the formation of an epiretinal membrane.
 

Understanding Epiretinal Membrane

An epiretinal membrane, sometimes called a macular pucker or cellophane maculopathy, is a thin, translucent layer of scar tissue that forms on the surface of the retina, specifically over the macula - the area responsible for sharp, central vision. This membrane is not cancerous and develops in response to changes in the eye, such as aging or after events like retinal tears, inflammation, or previous eye surgeries.
 

What Causes an Epiretinal Membrane?

Most cases of epiretinal membrane develop without a clear cause and are associated with the natural aging process. As we age, the vitreous gel inside the eye can shrink and pull away from the retina. This process, called posterior vitreous detachment, may stimulate the formation of a membrane. Less commonly, epiretinal membranes may form after eye injuries, retinal blood vessel problems, or conditions like diabetic retinopathy.
 

Signs and Symptoms

Not all epiretinal membranes cause noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they can include:

• Blurred or distorted central vision (straight lines may appear wavy)

• Difficulty reading or seeing fine details

• A gray, hazy area in the center of vision

The severity of symptoms often depends on the thickness of the membrane and how much it affects the macula.
 

Diagnosis

Diagnosis usually begins with a thorough eye exam. Your retina specialist will use specialized equipment, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), to get detailed images of the retina and detect even thin membranes. Sometimes, fluorescein angiography may be performed to examine retinal blood flow.
 

When Does an Epiretinal Membrane Require Treatment?

Most epiretinal membranes are mild and may not require treatment, especially if symptoms are minimal and not affecting daily activities. Many patients are monitored over time with regular eye exams to track any changes.

However, treatment may be recommended if:

• Vision becomes significantly blurred or distorted

• The membrane thickens and starts to pull on the retina, causing noticeable vision loss

• Daily activities, such as reading or driving, become difficult

The most effective treatment is a surgical procedure called vitrectomy with membrane peeling. During this outpatient surgery, the surgeon removes the vitreous gel and carefully peels away the membrane from the retina. This often results in improved or stabilized vision, though full vision restoration may not always be possible.
 

Get Expert Care for Your Eye Health

An epiretinal membrane is a relatively common eye condition, especially as we age. While many cases cause few or no symptoms, some may impact vision and daily life. Early detection and regular monitoring are key to preserving your eyesight.

If you have been diagnosed with an epiretinal membrane or are experiencing changes in your vision, contact Gulf Coast Retina Center for a comprehensive retinal evaluation. Visit our office in Sarasota or Venice, Florida, call (941) 312-2769 to book an appointment, or be seen today.