Signs of Posterior vitreous detachment

Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Description

The vitreous gel fills the eye behind the lens. The retina is the "film" of the eye that detects light and is located in the back of the globe of the eye. The vitreous gel can liquify and shrink pulling away from the retina. The vitreous gel separating from the retina is called a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). PVD is more common as one ages and with extreme nearsightedness. In general PVD does not cause a decrease in vision unless blood enters the vitreous gel (posterior vitreous hemorrhage). A small percentage of patients (3%-7%) with PVD can go on to develop a retinal detachment which is an emergency condition that can cause permanent loss of vision if it is not treated immediately.

Symptoms

Flashes of light, floaters (spots or strings in the field of vision), a ring of floaters just to the temporal side of central vision.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be done. The eye may be dilated to look at the retina with an ophthalmoscope. An ophthalmologist may do a special exam with a gonioscope lens. An ultrasound of the eye may be performed.

Treatment

Treatment is usually not necessary if there is no associated retinal tear or detachment. If PVD is associated with a posterior vitreous hemorrhage the surgeon may observe the situation or elect to remove the blood.