Cystoid Macular Edema Causes

Cystoid macular edema occurs when the macular becomes swollen.  The macula is an oval-shaped area near the center of the retina.  The buildup of fluid in the macula causes problems with vision.  The problems usually resolve as the macular swelling goes away.

Cystoid macular edema causes include injury, disease or eye surgery.  Cystoid macular edema often develops in patients who have had recent eye surgery (particularly cataract surgery), as well as patients with diabetic retinopathy, uveitis and retinal vascular disease. 

If a patient develops cystoid macular edema following cataract surgery, it is usually due to normal post-operative inflammation causing the blood vessels in the center part of the retina to start to leak. As leakage occurs, the tissues begin to swell, which can lead to blurred or distorted vision.

Although oral medications are sometimes used to treat cystoid macular edema, the majority of the time the treatment consists of anti-inflammatory eye drops.  In some cases, surgery is performed to relieve pressure and ocular injections are also sometimes advised.  Many patients report improvement in vision following treatment.  For information about cystoid macular edema causes or treatment, please contact Associated Retina Consultants in Phoenix today at 602-242-4928 or associatedretinaconsultants.com.