Some visual symptoms creep in gradually — which is precisely why they are easy to dismiss or blame on tiredness. Straight lines that look slightly wavy, text that seems to warp when you read, or a sense that something at the centre of your vision is not quite sharp. If any of these descriptions sound familiar, you may be dealing with an epiretinal membrane, also known as an epimacular membrane or macular pucker.

It is not an emergency, but it is not something to leave unattended either. Dr. Gurjeet Jutley, retina and macula specialist at Clínica Guirao, explains everything you need to know.

What is an epiretinal membrane?

An epiretinal membrane is a thin layer of scar-like tissue that grows over the macula — the central area of the retina responsible for your sharpest vision. Over time, this membrane can contract and cause the underlying retina to wrinkle or pucker, distorting the image you perceive.

The macula is the part of your eye you use to read, recognise faces, see fine detail and distinguish colours. When it is affected, central vision quality deteriorates, although peripheral vision usually remains intact.

Why does it develop?

In most cases, epiretinal membranes are idiopathic — they arise without an identifiable external cause and are related to natural changes in the vitreous (the gel filling the inside of the eye) that occur with age. They can also develop following previous eye surgery, inflammation, a retinal detachment or an ocular trauma.

They are more common from the age of 50 onwards and affect both sexes equally. Many people have one without knowing it because, in the early stages, it may not produce noticeable symptoms.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms are metamorphopsia — the perception that straight lines look wavy or distorted — and a reduction in central visual acuity, noticed especially when reading or focusing on fine detail. Some patients also describe a sense of slightly blurred or “dirty” vision at the centre of their visual field.

A simple way to check at home is to look at a grid or a door with straight lines, closing one eye at a time. If the lines appear to curve or warp, that is a reason to seek an assessment.

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made through a fundus examination and, most importantly, optical coherence tomography (OCT) — a non-invasive test that produces high-resolution images of the retinal layers. At Clínica Guirao we have state-of-the-art equipment to carry out this examination with the greatest precision.

Is there a treatment?

When the membrane does not produce significant symptoms or vision remains at acceptable levels, periodic monitoring may be the right approach. However, when distortion or vision loss affects quality of life — the ability to read, drive or recognise faces — surgery is the most effective solution.

The procedure is called vitrectomy with membrane peeling. It involves removing the vitreous and carefully lifting the membrane that is causing the retina to pucker. It is a day-surgery procedure performed by Dr. Gurjeet Jutley using state-of-the-art microsurgical equipment. Visual recovery is gradual and can take several months, but in the majority of cases distortion improves significantly.

Will I go blind?

Epiretinal membranes rarely cause severe vision loss. The most common outcome is an effect on central vision quality without leading to blindness. However, if left untreated and allowed to progress, vision can deteriorate enough to prevent basic daily activities. This is why follow-up with a specialist is important.

When should I book an appointment?

If you notice that straight lines look wavy, that your central vision has changed compared to a few months ago, or that reading has become harder without a change in your prescription, ask for an assessment. A fundus examination and OCT are enough to reach a diagnosis.

At Clínica Guirao, we has extensive experience in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of macular conditions, including epiretinal membranes. We will explain everything clearly and without rushing.

📍 Gran Vía del Escultor Francisco Salzillo, 11 — Murcia   ·   🌐 clinicaguirao.com