OPHTHALMIC CONDITIONS
Vitreous Detachment
When the vitreous degenerates and liquefies
What exactly is the vitreous body?
The vitreous body is a gel – like substance that fills the posterior chamber of the eye, located between the crystalline lens and the light – sensitive layer, called the retina, where visual information is processed. In younger individuals, the vitreous is transparent and firm. However, as people age, it loses its consistency and becomes more aqueous, leading to detachment from certain areas at the back of the eye.
What exactly is a vitreous detachment?
As the vitreous degenerates with aging, it liquefies and may detach from parts of the retinal walls. This is known as posterior vitreous detachment. It is a fairly common eye condition and is usually harmless. Patients with vitreous detachment in one eye are highly likely to develop it in the other eye as well.
What are the symptoms of vitreous detachment?
The main symptoms are the following:
Floaters: Small floating spots appear in the patient’s visual field, which may take the form of irritating black dots or strands.
Flashes: The patient may occasionally see peripheral flashes of light.
How is vitreous detachment treated?
In most cases, this eye condition is not dangerous, and no medication is usually prescribed. Only in special cases, if degenerations or tears are detected during the clinical examination, preventive entrenchment with photocoagulation laser technique may be recommended to avoid the risk scenario of a retinal detachment. Patients diagnosed with vitreous detachment are advised to visit their ophthalmologist for a typical follow – up eye examination within a month, so as to ensure that the condition is progressing normally.
When can vitreous detachment be considered dangerous?
Vitreous detachment may become risky if there is a lack of mechanical pressure or traction at the site of detachment, as this can lead to a retinal detachment. This is a really emergency situation, requiring prompt surgical intervention. If left untreated, it can lead to catastrophic consequences for vision.
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