What Is a Wrinkle in the Retina?

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Question:
What is a wrinkle in the retina?

Answer:
A wrinkle in the retina is another name for an epiretinal membrane (ERM). An ERM develops from the growth of scar tissue across the surface of the retina in the macular area. This relatively clear scar tissue can contract and cause the retina to wrinkle. This can result in distorted or blurred vision. A symptomatic ERM causing vision loss can be removed surgically by a retina specialist (an Eye M.D. with additional training in diseases of the retina). Often an ERM is an incidental finding and does not affect vision. In these cases, it can be observed.

Answered by: John Kitchens, MD 

Categories: Eye Diseases, Eye Surgery

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