Imaging, visual function and quality of life in epiretinal membrane (ERM)

Abstract

Epiretinal membrane (ERM) is present in approximately 4% of people over the age of 40. ERM is the most common macular disease, with approximately 80% of patients reporting metamorphopsia and aniseikonia. Recently, advances in vitrectomy techniques have improved the visual prognosis of ERM. However, there are still many patients who complain of residual metamorphopsia and aniseikonia after surgery. In order to deal with such patients, we need to increase our knowledge of the metamorphopsia and aniseikonia in patients with ERM. In this section, we will discuss the characteristics of metamorphopsia and aniseikonia in ERM, their relationship to imaging and vision-related quality of life (QOL). In addition, I will give my personal opinion on the indications for ERM surgery and the explanation to patients considering these visual functions and QOL.