Progression of chronic CME

If chronic cystoid macular edema persists without being controlled, does visual acuity generally continue to decline or does it usually stablize? Are there other risks of long standing CME? I've had this problem for about 5 years. Nothing has helped me.

[Timothy D McGarity, M.D.]

With CME, there is usually a cause. Has your doctor described the cause of your CME? Cystoid Macular Edema (CME) following cataract surgery is called Irvine Gass Syndrome. This type of CME will usually resolve with with medications drops or injections. Other types of CME can be related to ocular inflammation or uveitis. Treating the underlying condition can help resolve this CME. Vitreous disease can also cause CME. Blood clots or vein blockages in the eye can lead to CME which become chronic and much harder to treat. Lowering you blood pressure will help to prevent these problems from occuring in the first place. Chronic CME from a specific cause may sometimes be treated with laser or injection or even pars plana vitrectomy surgery with membrane peel. I would recommend a visit with a Ophthalmologist who specialize in diseases of the Retina.
Best wishes,
Timothy D. McGarity, M.D.

201 W. Broadway
Building #4
Columbia, MO 65203

www.tmcgaritymd.com

573/441-7070 work