Cystoid Macular Oedema


Cystoid macula oedema is also known as CMO and in America as CME (Cystoid Macular Edema).  It is a painless condition affecting the retina by the filling of clear fluid in multiple cyst-like formations in the macula of the eye.  The macula enables central vision and the fluid causes macula swelling or oedema, which results in distorted vision, as the macula no longer has its regular pattern.  The cause for this condition is unknown but it often occurs with other eye conditions and diseases such as blockage of a vein, uveitis (inflammation of the interior of the eye) and diabetes.  It most commonly occurs within four months following cataract surgery.

Symptoms

Cystoid Macular Oedema often occurs in both eyes and causes blurred or a reduction in vision, straight ahead.  Peripheral vision is unaffected as the macula is not responsible for this.  There is sometimes a distortion or change in size of images for example, objects appearing smaller than usual.  Other symptoms include retinal inflammation and swelling, these may occur without any visual loss.  In uveitis, there maybe an increase in floaters which are caused by inflammatory cells which have become suspended in the interior chamber of the eye.

Treatment

The oedema can be seen through a lens but ophthalmologists often use a fluorescein angiography, which involves injecting a dye in your arm, which travels to the eye and helps distinguish different parts and fluid areas. 

The oedema may settle on its own but if it remains over a long period of time, it may require treatment.  Anti-inflammatory medications are usually prescribed and they are usually given as eye drops, but they may also be administered as an injection or taken orally.  Laser eye surgery may be performed if the vitreous area of the eye is the source of the problem so that there is a particular focus of leakage in the retina.  A vitrectomy can be performed to suction the vitreous out of the eye and a clear solution is placed.  Swelling and inflammation rarely causes glaucoma, in which case medication is given to reduce pressure. 


Laser Eye Surgery Enquiry Form

Complete this form if you would like information about laser eye surgery including costs & suitablity.