•  
  •  

Macular Edema

Macular edema occurs when fluid and protein deposits collect in the eyeball on or under a part of the retina (the lining of the back of the eye) that is called the macula. This material causes the macula to thicken and swell, and it may distort a person's central vision.

The macula provides sharp, clear central vision that allows a person to see form, color, and detail that is directly in the line of sight.

Last Revised: March 22, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology & Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.