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.
| By | Healthwise Staff |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology |
| Last Revised | March 22, 2011 |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.
