Definition: Cystoid Macular Edema (CME) is the presence of fluid filled cystic structures that appear in the macula, the central portion of the retina that is responsible for fine detail vision. The result of the cystic structures is swelling or edema (fluid retention) in the macula.

Symptoms: Signs of CME include blurred or distorted central vision. CME may be present with no visual loss or changes.

Treatment: CME can be discovered with a dilated eye exam by your ophthalmologist. Diagnostic tests, such as a fluorescein angiogram and an OCT scan may be used to better diagnose and track worsening or improvement of the edema.

The treatment for CME may include anti inflammatory medications, such as steroid drops or ocular injections, or possibly laser or vitrectomy surgery.