Cellophane maculopathy

Cellophane maculopathy is a medical condition that affects the eye's macula, the part of the retina responsible for central, high-resolution vision. It is also known as macular pucker or epiretinal membrane.

Overview

Cellophane maculopathy is characterized by the formation of a thin, semi-transparent layer of fibrous tissue over the macula. This layer, which resembles cellophane, can cause distortion and blurring of central vision. The condition is most commonly seen in individuals over the age of 50, but can occur at any age.

Causes

The exact cause of cellophane maculopathy is unknown, but it is believed to be associated with changes in the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. As the vitreous shrinks and pulls away from the retina, it can cause damage that leads to the formation of the cellophane-like membrane. Other potential causes include eye injury, retinal detachment, retinal tear, and inflammatory eye diseases.

Symptoms

Symptoms of cellophane maculopathy can vary in severity, but often include blurred or distorted vision, difficulty reading, and seeing straight lines as wavy or distorted. Some individuals may also experience a decrease in color perception.

Diagnosis

Cellophane maculopathy is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. This may include a visual acuity test, a dilated eye exam, and imaging tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography.

Treatment

Treatment for cellophane maculopathy is typically only recommended if the condition is causing significant vision problems. Options may include vitrectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the vitreous and the cellophane-like membrane, and membrane peeling, a procedure to remove the membrane from the surface of the retina.

Prognosis

The prognosis for cellophane maculopathy is generally good, with many individuals experiencing an improvement in vision following treatment. However, some may continue to experience mild distortion or blurring of vision.