REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT
What is a macular fold?
30 December 2021
The macular fold is a wrinkle, crease, or bulge in the macula, which is responsible for sharp, detailed central vision, known as visual acuity. The macula must be smooth at the back of the eye in order to function properly.
When macular folds are present, objects may appear wavy or details may be difficult to see. Gray, cloudy, or empty areas may be seen in the central field of vision - macular folds do not interfere with peripheral vision.
Age is the most common cause for the appearance of macular folds. As we age, the vitreous begins to shrink and separate from the retina smoothly. Sometimes the vitreous can stick to the retina, causing scar tissue to form causing the retina and macula to wrinkle or bulge.
Some eye conditions can also present or cause macular folds:
- Vitreous detachment
- Retinal detachment
- Swelling inside the eye
- Eye damage caused by surgeries
- Vascular problems in the retina
For the diagnosis of macular fold, the pupil is dilated by means of eye drops. With the pupil dilated, the ophthalmologist can see the inside and the back of the eye through a special lens. An optical coherence tomography (OCT) is also indicated to obtain detailed images of the retina and macula.
Treatment will depend on the symptoms that occur, if they are mild, treatment may not be needed, instead, the ophthalmologist may change the prescription for glasses to improve vision. If you have severe or worrisome symptoms, a surgery called a vitrectomy is recommended.
