Cystoids Macular Edema (CME)

Cystoids Macular Edema (CME)

Cystoids Macular Edema, commonly known as CME affects the central retina or macula (the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the retina).

Description and symptoms:

CME is a painless disorder characterized by retinal swelling or edema caused by cyst-like pockets of fluid in the macula and results in blurred or decreased central vision (acuity), light sensitivity, and/or pink tinged vision. Loss of visual field is not associated with this condition.

Causes:

CME is caused by several conditions but is typically a result of injury, disease, or eye surgery (cataract surgery in particular). Following surgery (within several months) or other inflammations of the eye, the blood vessels in the eye leak fluid into the retina, which is normally dry. When this fluid from the blood vessels leaks into the dry retina, it causes swelling similar to a dry sponge turning into a wet sponge. This leaking and thickening is called edema, hence the name macular edema.

Treatment:

Treatment for CME varies depending on the factors leading to the condition. Anti-inflammatory medications such as cortisone or indomethacin are administered to treat retinal inflammation. Inflammatory medicines are usually administered in the form of eye drops; however, in some cases they may be administered by mouth or injection. Diamox is a diuretic that is sometimes used to reduce swelling in some cases. A surgical procedure called vitrectomy is sometimes performed if the vitreous (gel that fills most of the eye) pulls on the macula.

The macula is responsible for our central vision. A healthy macula enables us to read, drive, and perform other activities of daily life. Assistive devices and low vision aids (large print, magnification sheets or glass, etc) are helpful adaptations that enable the individual with CME to function in daily activities.

References:

Cystoid macular edema. Retrieved July 3, 2010, from

http/www.jiredesign.com/

Cystoid macular edema: Retrieved July 3, 2010, from

http/www.Maculacenter.com/eyeconditions/cme.htm

Cystoid macular edema. Retrieved July 3, 2010, from

http/www.williamsoneyeinstitute.com/theretinacenter/trc_cme.php

Cystoid macular edema. Retrieved July 3, 2010, from

http/www.kellogg.umich.edu/…/cystoid.macular.edema.html

Cystoid macular edema. Retrieved July 3, 2010, from

http/www.emedicine.medscape.medscape.com/article/1225735-overview