What are the possible causes of an epiretinal membrane? What are the treatment options?

Roberto

An epiretinal membrane is a condition in which a thin layer of cells grows over the surface of the retina. Over time, these cells can contract and cause the retina to wrinkle. This reduces the quality of vision.

Among the many causes of epiretinal membranes are trauma, bleeding within the eye, inflammatory conditions of the eye, prior retinal surgery and laser treatment of the retina. Also, some people develop epiretinal membranes without an obvious cause.

Initially, people with epiretinal membranes experience a mild decline in their vision, often reporting that images look distorted. If the epiretinal membrane continues to grow, they will notice a worsening of their vision.

Mild epiretinal membranes are not treated because the risks of surgery outweigh the potential gains. However, if the epiretinal membrane advances, surgical treatment may be considered. The surgery, which should be performed by a retinal specialist, involves peeling the delicate membrane off of the retina. Vision improves in more than 75 percent of patients after such surgery.