Eyes & VisionPending review

Retinal detachment

Separation of the neurosensory retina from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium cuts off its blood supply and causes progressive, painless visual field loss, a surgical emergency where speed of treatment determines whether central vision is saved.

In a nutshell

Vitreous traction tears the retina, letting fluid separate the neurosensory retina from its blood supply in the retinal pigment epithelium beneath. Flashes, floaters and a spreading curtain track the mechanism exactly, and speed to surgery, before the macula detaches, is the main determinant of visual outcome.

Classic presentation

A patient, often with high myopia, describes sudden flashes of light, new floaters and a dark curtain or shadow spreading across their peripheral vision, painless throughout.

Key points

Flashes reflect vitreous traction on the retina, floaters reflect blood or pigment released into the vitreous, and the curtain reflects the field of non-functioning, detached retina.

You’ve reached the end of the preview

This topic is part of full high-yield access. Create a free account to read every key point, first-line investigation and exam trap — or browse the free sample topics without one.

Educational content pending clinical review. Not medical advice.