Macular edema in ocular inflammation

Abstract

Aim of this paper is to present the pathophysiological processes and the ultrastructure of the retina, important for the formation and development of macular edema. Macular edema is defined as an abnormal leakage and fluid and/ protein accumulation in the external plexiform layer and inner nuclear layer (on/under the macula), as well as swelling of Muller cells that lead to its thickening and swelling. It occurs as consequence of increased leakage from the retinal perifoveal capillaries and consequential macular thickening that, if it lasts longer than 6 months, is seen as chronic in nature. Based on clinical and imaging techniques, macular edema is classified as ischemic and non-ischemic (cystoid or diffuse). Macular edema is not an isolated ocular disease but is rather a complication of an isolated ocular inflammation or of an ocular inflammation that's associated with systemic non-infectious (autoimmune) or infectious diseases. This paper, in addition to the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of macular edema, also briefly covers imaging and treatment procedures and emphasizes the importance of treating the underlying inflammatory diseases that has led to the formation of the macular edema.