What is retinal detachment?
Among the many problems that can affect the visual apparatus, the retinal detachment is one of the most common causes of sudden vision loss. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina, the ocular membrane responsible for vision, physically separates from the underlying layer (the choroid) to which it is normally attached and which is responsible for blood supply. This serious problems can affect anyone and occur at any age. However, if diagnosed in time, the retinal detachment is a reversible condition from which one can also have a visual recovery.
Pathophysiology
Retinal detachment from its basic location may initially affect a small area and later extend to the entire retina, also involving the central portion, the macula. In general, the most frequent cause of retinal detachment is due to tears within of the retina that may appear as a consequence of other conditions, such as:
-eye trauma;
- advanced myopia;
- family history of retinal detachment;
- consequence of eye surgery such as cataract surgery.
In addition, some pathologies such as diabetic retinopathy, an ocular complication of diabetes, can lead to retinal detachment.
Retinal detachment symptoms
Retinal detachment is not a painful condition. The retinal detachment sufferer initially feels the appearance of moving bodies floating in the field of vision, unclear view, sudden flashes of light and high beams and then, in the final stage, to the loss of sight.
Diagnosis
A early diagnosis is essential to repair the retinal detachment and prevent irreversible vision loss. The diagnosis is made by the specialist doctor who will subject the patient to a careful clinical ocular evaluation. Generally, in the presence of retinal detachment, an examination performed with the ophthalmoscope is sufficient for a correct diagnosis. In some cases, however, ultrasound examination is also necessary.
Treatment
Retinal detachment can be treated differently depending on the underlying cause: with the drug therapy if it is caused by leakage or accumulation of fluid, as in the case of diabetic retinopathy; with a surgery if it occurs as a result of retinal tears. Drug therapy involves the use of corticosteroid drugs or immune system inhibitors. Surgical interventions, on the other hand, generally involve laser surgery or vitrectomy.
Source
Stewart MW et al. Current management of diabetic tractional retinal detachments. Indian Journal of Ophthalmology. Vol 66 Issue 12. 2018
Dr. Carmelo Chines
Direttore responsabile
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