Idiopathic Epiretinal Membranes: Visual Outcomes and Prognostic Factors

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the associations between anatomical changes and visual outcomes in patients with idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM). Materials and Methods:We performed a prospective study of 130 consecutive idiopathic ERM patients and report their visual outcomes and the factors associated with visual outcome and anatomical changes. Results: Of 130 eyes of 130 patients, 87 eyes underwent surgery, while the remaining 43 eyes were observed. At 6-month follow-up, the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) increased in the whole population. Mean Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letter score changed from 51 to 65 in the surgical group and from 67 to 68 in the non-surgical group. The surgical group had improvement in BCVA at all ERM stages and grades of disorganization of the retinal inner layers (DRIL) (p<0.01). In multivariable analysis of the surgical group, factors associated with BCVA of ETDRS 60 letters or more were no or mild DRIL and the absence of ellipsoid zone disruption at baseline (p=0.002 and p=0.034, respectively) and this statistically significant positive correlation was still maintained at 12-month follow-up Conclusion: Baseline DRIL grade and presence of ellipsoid zone disruption were the most informative prognostic factors in patients with idiopathic ERMs. Patients with severe DRIL and/or advanced ERMs had improved vision after ERM removal.

Epiretinal Membrane Management for Young Adult Patient: A Case Report

“…In a systematic review study, it was found that duration, severity of traction, and cause of ERM influenced postoperative visual acuity. 2,4,5 Continuous follow-up is also useful for monitoring whether there is recurrence because, in these patients, a relatively young age can be a problem. The risk factor for recurrence is around 25% of cases around 20 months postoperatively.…”

Prognostic factors for visual acuity improvement after treatment of submacular hemorrhage secondary to exudative age-related macular degeneration

“…2,9 Previous studies have explored this topic, searching for prognostic criteria that will help the surgeon inform the patient of expected visual outcomes in their specific case. [10][11][12] However, these studies mainly focused on the cause of hemorrhage, presenting visual acuity and time to treatment.…”