Macular pucker (cellophane maculopathy, premacular fibrosis, or epiretinal membrane) is formation of a thin membrane over the retina, which interferes with vision.

Macular pucker typically occurs after age 50 and is most common in people older than 75. A macular pucker is a thin membrane of scar tissue that forms over the retina and contracts, wrinkling the retina underneath.

With aging, the vitreous humor (the jellylike substance inside the back part of the eye; also called the vitreous) shrinks. Various conditions that can cause wrinkling of the retina include diabetic retinopathy, uveitis, retinal detachment, or injury to the eye.

Symptoms may include blurred vision or distorted vision (straight lines may appear wavy). A doctor confirms the diagnosis by looking at the back of the eye with an ophthalmoscope. Fluorescein angiography may also be helpful.

Most people need no treatment. If problems with vision are significant, the membrane can be removed surgically, using a procedure called a membrane peel. This procedure can be done under local anesthesia in an operating room and usually takes about 30 minutes.

Last full review/revision February 2003