Epiretinal Membrane, Vitreomacular Adhesion, & Macular Holes

Thickening of the Vitreous Gel May Cause Visual Distortion

Epiretinal membrane, macular pucker, cellophane maculopathy, and vitreomacular adhesion are terms that describe the thickening of the back layer of the vitreous gel as it attaches to the central area of the retina (macula) and/or the formation of a new layer of tissue on the macular surface following vitreous separation.

Epiretinal membrane is often associated with distorted or wavy vision as well as blurred vision.

The condition occurs because of condensation of the vitreous gel, a Jell-O-like clear substance comprising the bulk volume of the back of the eye. This layer will sometimes thicken in eyes after intraocular surgery, with aging and with episodes of ocular inflammation or diabetic eye disease.