Cystoid Macular Edema (CME) is a condition in which there is an edema or swelling in the macula. The swelling collects in multiple fluid filled cysts in the retinal tissue and thus has been named “cyst-like” macular edema. The swelling in the macula causes the vision to be blurred but is painless.

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Fortunately, most patients with CME are successfully treated with their vision improving, although the healing process may be slow and take up to several months

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What Causes CME?

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Although the exact causes of CME are still not known, it can be associated with:

• Diabetes

• Eye surgery

• Eye trauma

• Retinal vein occlusion

• Uveitis

• Side effects from medication

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Cataract Surgery

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CME most commonly occurs after cataract surgery. About 3% of all cataract surgery patients will experience decreased vision within a few months of surgery. If CME occurs in one eye, there is an increased risk that it will also occur in your other eye.

The other cause is vitreous traction. Normally, the vitreous (the jelly like substance which fills the eye) is loosely attached to the retina. However, in some patients, CME arises from a tugging effect on the macula by this vitreous.

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Symptoms

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• Blurred or distorted central vision

• CME does not affect peripheral vision

• Pink-tinted or dim vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Sometimes CME may be present when no visual loss occurs

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