RETINA AND VITREOUS

SEE THE WORLD IN THE BEST WAY.

The retina is a thin layer of nerve tissue located at the back of the eye, responsible for capturing images and sending them to the brain, enabling the perception of vision. The retina is essential for visual function because it converts the received light into electrical signals that are processed by the brain. Next to the retina, the vitreous (or vitreous humor) is a gel-like, transparent substance that fills the eye’s internal cavity, maintaining essential and direct contact with the retina.

MAIN RETINAL AND VITREOUS DISEASES

Diabetic Retinopathy

It is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people with diabetes. The disease occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the retinal blood vessels, leading to fluid leakage or vessel obstruction, impairing vision. It can lead to retinal detachment, a serious condition that can result in permanent blindness.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

This disease affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed, central vision. With age, this condition can worsen and affect the ability to read, recognize faces, and perform other daily activities.

Retinal Detachment

Flashes of light or shadows in the peripheral vision—such as a curtain or dark floating spots—could indicate retinal detachment. It can be caused by trauma, peripheral retinal degeneration, and vitreous traction, especially in myopes, who have thinner and more fragile retinas.

 

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from its underlying support layer, disrupting the communication between the eye and the brain. It is a medical emergency that can result in permanent vision loss if not treated quickly.

Macular Hole

The appearance of a dark spot in the center of vision may be a symptom of a macular hole, a condition caused by vitreous traction and the tearing of some or all layers of the macula, the central and thinnest area of the retina, impairing central vision.

Common Symptoms of Retinal and Vitreous Diseases

It is important to be aware of warning signs of issues in the retina and vitreous structures. Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Blurred or distorted vision
  • Floating spots or dark areas in the vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Gradual or sudden vision loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult an ophthalmologist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Risks to Vision

Retinal and vitreous diseases, if left untreated, can lead to serious risks to vision, including:

  • Partial or total blindness in severe cases, such as retinal detachment
  • Loss of central vision, as occurs in macular degeneration
  • Irreversible damage to the eye structure if not treated in time