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Explanation
Epiretinal membrane ('ERM') formation
is also called cellophane maculopathy or macular pucker. It is
not a type of macular degeneration.
The central part of the retina is affected. A very thin
film or membrane develops on the surface of the retina. This
membrane, very like 'cling-film', starts to shrink, and this
causes wrinkling of the retina.
The wrinkling may be mild, in which case surgery is not recommended.
In such a patient the sight would be good or reasonable, and stable
and not getting worse.
Vision
The vision can be affected in various ways. Central vision can
be reduced, causing generally blurred vision. Alternatively, images
may appear bent or wavy.
If the sight does get worse and the wrinkling increase, then surgery
may be recommended. Only ~15% people notice an increase in the
wrinkling, and their sight will deteriorate over months or a year.
In this group of patients surgery improves sight in ~80%. Eye 2011
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