Utilizing optical coherence tomography in the diagnosis and management of cystoid macular edema with topical treatment

Cystoid macular edema (CME) is characterized by inflammation at the fovea caused by the breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier, resulting in the accumulation of fluid-filled cysts in the outer plexiform and inner nuclear layers of the retina. Physiologically, CME is caused by prostaglandin release, resulting in retinal vasodilation and vasopermeability. The etiology of CME is most often due to a history of ocular surgery or inflammation. Historically, fluorescein angiography has been the main diagnostic test for CME with its distinguishing “flower-petal” pattern. In this case report, optical coherence tomography (OCT) is utilized in the management of CME treated with ocular medication.