Cystoid Macular Edema

The macula is the center portion of the retina, and one of the most critical areas of the eye structure, as this is where sharp visual images are created.

Some people develop a condition called “cystic macular edema,” or “cystoid macular edema,” in which fluid swells the macula, with cyst-like patterns appearing. The fluid buildup is called “edema.”

What causes cystic macular edema?

This eye condition can be caused by several events, including:

Eye inflammation
Diabetes
Previous eye surgery
Eye trauma
Glaucoma medications
Diabetes medications
Retinal vein blockages
Uveitis (autoimmune inflammation)
Unknown causes

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Symptoms of cystic macular edema

Some people have no symptoms, while others notice wavy patterns in the center of the field of vision or may notice colors appear different. To identify cystic macular edema, a full retinal exam must be performed. Several diagnostic tests may be performed to identify this eye condition. Patients may have trouble reading.

Diagnosing cystic macular edema

To identify the condition, a test called a fluorescein angiogram may be needed. Color images of your retina are taken, and a yellow dye is injected into your arm. The dye allows the doctor to see any pooling of fluid in the macula. Another test, called OCT, or “optical coherence tomography,” may be administered.

Treatments for cystic macular edema

The treatment performed will reflect the extent of your condition. For some clients, only topical therapy may be needed, taken by mouth or administered as a set of injections. Medicated eye drops can reduce swelling, and some other medications may be prescribed to further reduce swelling. In some cases, laser surgery may be necessary to repair leaking blood vessels in the retina or to remove scar tissue. At Soroudi Advanced LASIK & Eye Centers, we are equipped with the most advanced laser system currently on the market and other world-class technologies to ensure our clients achieve the best results possible with the shortest recovery time.

Why choose Soroudi Advanced LASIK & Eye Center?

When something goes wrong with your eyes and vision, it can be frightening. At Soroudi Advanced LASIK & Eye Center, we believe our clients should have access to the latest generation technologies and innovative treatments and undergo their sessions in comfort and privacy.

Dr. Soroudi is widely known as a leading eye surgeon and is recognized both nationally and internationally for his skills and inventions and for developing innovative new treatments for eye conditions and diseases. Each of our three facilities has an in-house, Medicare-certified surgery center equipped with next-generation systems and technology. Your journey to clearer vision will be seamless and comfortable, with the compassionate support of Dr. Soroudi and his outstanding medical team.

Diabetic retinopathy and macular edema

If you have diabetic retinopathy, you may need to undergo a “vitrectomy,” which removes any blood and scar tissue within the eye, replacing it with saline solution. This may be coupled with laser coagulation to ward off further damage.

Your custom procedure

Every treatment performed at Soroudi Advanced LASIK & Eye Center is 100% customized. Dr. Soroudi is a leading eye specialist and uses minimally invasive treatments to help his clients resolve cystic macular edema and a wide range of other conditions and diseases affecting the eye, eyelids, and entire orbital area.

Your recovery

If laser surgery is the recommended approach performed to correct leaking blood vessels, your recovery time will reflect the extent of your procedure. Your eye will be covered with a patch to protect it, and you will receive prescription eye medications to speed recovery. You will need to wear an eye shield while sleeping, so you do not rub your eye.