Brilliant blue G

The internal limiting membrane (ILM) is a thin and translucent structure that demarcates the transition from the retina from the vitreous body of the eye. It acts as a scaffold on which excessive tissue can grow, which results in visual distortion when it is projected onto the neighbouring retina. This causes visual loss and/or distortion.

An epiretinal membrane (also known as ERM) is a fibrous type of tissue that can be found on the inner surface of the retina and occurs idiopathically, and in some cases, retinal detachment and inflammation. It is often found on the surface of the internal limiting membrane (ILM), causing visual loss and distortion. The above condition as well as the associated macular pucker or traction maculopathy can affect the ILM, contributing to visual complications. The removal of the ILM with or without vitrectomy is often a simple solution to these conditions.

Brilliant Blue G specifically stains the internal limiting membrane (ILM) in the eye without staining the epiretinal membrane or the retina, allowing for easier surgical removal. The mechanism of its specific staining that is limited to the ILM is currently not fully understood.