Retinal detachment Flashcards
(9 cards)
What is retinal detachment?
Retinal detachment occurs when the neurosensory tissue that lines the back of the eye comes away from its underlying pigment epithelium. It is a reversible cause of visual loss, provided it is recognised and treated before the macula is affected.
What happens if retinal detachment is left untreated?
If left untreated and symptomatic, retinal detachment will inevitably lead to permanent visual loss.
What are the risk factors for retinal detachment?
Risk factors include diabetes mellitus, myopia, age, previous surgery for cataracts, and eye trauma (e.g., boxing).
How does diabetes mellitus contribute to retinal detachment?
Diabetes mellitus occurs as a result of breaks in the retina due to traction by the vitreous humour. These tears may proceed to detachment if left untreated.
What are the features of retinal detachment?
Features include new onset floaters or flashes, sudden onset painless visual field loss described as a curtain or shadow, and reduced peripheral visual fields.
What happens if the macula is involved in retinal detachment?
If the macula is involved, central visual acuity and visual outcomes become much worse. Central acuity may be reduced to hand movements if the macula is detached.
What does the swinging light test indicate in retinal detachment?
The swinging light test may highlight a relative afferent pupillary defect if the optic nerve is involved.
What findings might be observed during fundoscopy in retinal detachment?
During fundoscopy, the red reflex may be lost and retinal folds may appear as pale, opaque, or wrinkled forms. If the break is small, it may appear normal.
What should be done for patients with new onset flashes and floaters?
Any patients with new onset flashes and floaters should be referred urgently (<24 hours) to an ophthalmologist for assessment.
