Retina · Medical Retina & AMD
Macular oedema is an abnormal accumulation of fluid at the centre of the retina, in the macula. It thickens the retina and impairs fine vision. It can have several causes, and management depends on the underlying condition.
Macular oedema is an abnormal accumulation of fluid at the centre of the retina, in the macula, the zone responsible for fine vision. This fluid thickens the retina and disrupts its structure, impairing the perception of fine detail.
It is not a disease in itself, but the consequence of another ocular or systemic condition. Management therefore always aims, in parallel, to treat the underlying cause.
Macular oedema is a sign, not an isolated disease: identifying its cause is the first step in management.
Macular oedema can have several origins. Identifying the cause is essential, as treatment follows from it.
Diabetes can weaken the blood vessels of the retina and cause fluid to leak into the macula. See the page on diabetic macular oedema.
A retinal vein occlusion can lead to macular oedema by impairing venous drainage.
Certain ocular inflammations (uveitis) may be accompanied by macular oedema. Management combines:
Macular oedema can occur following certain procedures, notably cataract surgery. It is usually transient and treatable:
Signs depend on the severity of the oedema and its cause:
OCT (optical coherence tomography) is the key examination: it precisely measures the thickness of the macula and the degree of oedema, without contact or discomfort, and guides treatment and monitoring. This is where Dr Gattoussi's expertise in retinal imaging is particularly valuable.
Treatment targets both the oedema itself and its cause. Depending on the situation, it may involve intravitreal injections, laser treatment, or eye drops, in addition to management of the underlying condition.
Measurement of the oedema and identification of the cause.
Management of the underlying condition (diabetes, vein occlusion, inflammation, etc.).
Intravitreal injections or other treatment depending on the case.
Regular reassessment to adjust treatment.
Prognosis depends on the cause and the promptness of management. This is assessed during consultation using OCT.
Depending on the cause, ongoing monitoring and repeated treatments (such as injections) may be necessary.
No. OCT is a non-contact, painless imaging technique.
See also
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