Epiretinal membrane (ERM)
An epiretinal membrane (cellophane maculopathy) is a condition in which a thin layer of tissue (membrane) forms on the surface of the macula - the central part of the retina.
This membrane can pull and deform the macula - leading to distorted and blurry vision.
The name "cellophane" comes from the fact that the membrane resembles a thin, transparent film.
How does it develop?
It most commonly develops as a result of natural age-related changes in the eye.
It may be associated with:
ageing
posterior vitreous detachment
previous eye surgery
eye inflammation
diabetes
In most cases it occurs in people over 50.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms are usually mild at first, but can become more pronounced:
distorted vision (straight lines appear wavy)
blurry central vision
difficulty reading
reduced visual acuity
Symptoms develop gradually - although visual acuity can remain stable for a longer period. Most commonly one eye is affected - though the same clinical picture can later appear in the other eye as well.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made through an ophthalmological examination:
Amsler grid test (to check central vision)
OCT diagnostic provides a detailed view of the macula and the membrane.
How is it treated?
In mild cases:
the condition is simply monitored
In cases where there is significant deterioration of vision - there are no eye drops, medications, or supplements that can remove the epiretinal membrane:
surgical treatment is applied - vitrectomy with membrane removal (ILM peeling)
This procedure removes the membrane and reduces its traction on the macula.
What affects the treatment outcome?
The outcome of surgery depends on several factors:
how long the membrane has been present
the degree of traction on the retina
the cause of formation (better prognosis in spontaneous/idiopathic cases)
What are the results?
Epiretinal membrane surgery has a high success rate.
The majority of patients experience improved vision and reduced image distortion after surgery.
Test your vision with the Amsler grid
How to take the test:
Put on your reading glasses (if you use them).
Hold the grid approximately 30 cm from your eyes.
Cover one eye.
Look at the black dot in the centre of the grid.
Pay attention to the lines around it.
Watch for:
Are the lines curved, wavy, or broken?
Is any part of the grid missing or blurred?
Do you see a dark spot in the centre?
Then repeat the test with the other eye.
When should you see an ophthalmologist?
If you notice any irregularities (bent lines, gaps, dark spots), see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.
These symptoms may indicate macular disease - including epiretinal membrane (ERM).
Frequently asked questions
Can an epiretinal membrane disappear on its own?
In rare cases the membrane may spontaneously relax, but this is uncommon. More often the condition remains stable or gradually worsens. It is therefore important to monitor the condition regularly and decide on surgery in time if vision begins to deteriorate.
Can glasses help with distorted vision?
Glasses cannot correct the distortion caused by an epiretinal membrane - which results from the physical traction on the retina, not from a refractive error. If there is also a refractive error alongside ERM, glasses should still be worn - but they will not affect the waviness of the image. The only way to reduce distortion is the surgical removal of the membrane.
Can an epiretinal membrane return after surgery?
Recurrence is possible, but relatively uncommon. If the membrane forms again, a repeat surgical procedure may be considered. Regular check-ups after surgery are therefore important.
Noticing distorted vision?
Contact us and schedule an examination - our specialists will confirm the diagnosis and propose the right solution for your vision.