Macular edema occurs when fluid and protein deposits collect on or under the macula of the eye, causing it to thicken and swell. The swelling may distort a person's central vision, as the macula is near the center of the retina at the back of the eyeball. It provides sharp, clear central vision that allows a person to see form, color, and detail that is directly in the line of sight.

Cystoid macular edema is a type of macular edema that includes cyst formation.

See also

• Diabetic retinopathy

Ophthalmology | Medical signs