Macular Edema

Macular edema occurs when fluid accumulates in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. This swelling distorts vision, making it blurry or wavy. The most common cause is diabetic macular edema (DME), but it can also result from retinal vein occlusion, uveitis, or eye surgery. The condition is diagnosed using optical coherence tomography (OCT), which provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina. Treatment typically involves anti-VEGF injections to reduce fluid leakage. Steroid injections or implants may also be used, particularly when the edema is related to inflammation.