What is Epiretinal Membrane?
Epiretinal Membrane is a disease in which a membrane forms over the macula. It is also called pre-macular membrane or preretinal membrane.
There are two main causes. One is due to aging and the other is due to inflammation in the eye, such as trauma or Uveitis. 40 to 60 years of age, the vitreous body, which makes up the majority of the eye, degenerates and the vitreous separates from the retina. At this time, a portion of the vitreous may remain in the macula, which may thicken and become the epiretinal membrane.
Main Examination Methods
There are three main examination methods.
These are fundus examination, DRI OCT Triton (3D fundus imaging device), and Amsler chart. The fundus examination is performed to examine the retina in the fundus of the eye in detail. The DRI OCT Triton (3D fundus imaging device) is an instrument that uses near-infrared light to examine the fundus of the eye. It allows cross-sectional observation of the retina, enabling early and accurate diagnosis of retinal diseases, especially macular lesions.
The Amsler chart is used to examine distortion, discoloration, and defects in vision by looking at a grid diagram.
Treatment
The main method of addressing the problem is vitrectomy to remove the membrane if vision loss or distortion is severe. Surgery improves vision and distortion symptoms.
*We will refer you to a facility that can perform vitrectomy if necessary.