Based in Tucson, Arizona, Dr. Cameron Javid works with a team to provide ophthalmologic care to diverse Retina Associates patients. Among the modalities of care offered at Retina Associates are those that address cystoid macular edema (CME). The condition impacts the macula, or central retina, and is without pain. It involves the appearance of several cystoid, or cyst-like, fluid areas within the macula. A common result is edema or retinal swelling.

Symptoms of CME include central vision that becomes blurry or otherwise deteriorates. There can be many causes for this condition, and maybe associated with a number of health issues, including diabetes, uveitis, and retinal vein occlusion.

With numerous potential factors leading to CME, it’s imperative to get tested. Most commonly, retinal inflammation is treated with corticosteroids or another type of anti-inflammatory medication. The eye may also be treated with drugs in the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor class. In rare cases, the vitreous, or gel in the back of the eye, there can be traction on the macula, which results in CME. In this situation, a vitrectomy or surgical procedure to remove the vitreous gel may be required.