The retina, a specialized layer of tissue at the back of the eye, converts light into electrical signals for the brain. Its outer regions, known as the peripheral retina, are important for overall sight and peripheral awareness. Various conditions can affect the retina, including specific areas of thinning, which can sometimes lead to vision problems.
Understanding Lattice Degeneration
Lattice degeneration is a common condition characterized by areas of thinning in the peripheral retina. These weakened spots often appear as oval or spindle-shaped patches, sometimes displaying a crosshatching pattern of white vessels or pigmentary changes. The term “lattice” describes this distinctive appearance. This condition affects 6% to 10% of the population and can occur in one or both eyes. While the exact cause is unclear, it is considered a degenerative process where the vitreous gel interacts with the retina. It frequently runs in families, suggesting a genetic influence.
Recognizing Symptoms and Risk Factors
Lattice degeneration typically causes no noticeable symptoms and is often discovered during routine eye examinations. However, symptoms can arise if complications develop from the weakened retinal areas. These might include new flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters (small specks or strings that drift across the field of vision), or changes in vision such as blurriness or a dark curtain obstructing part of the visual field.
Factors that increase the likelihood of developing lattice degeneration include high myopia (severe nearsightedness), as longer eyes may stretch the peripheral retina. A family history of lattice degeneration or retinal detachment also increases the risk. Certain genetic conditions, such as Stickler syndrome, Marfan syndrome, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, are associated with a higher incidence.
Potential Complications
The primary concern with lattice degeneration is its potential to lead to retinal tears or retinal detachment. The thinning of the retina in lattice areas makes it more susceptible to developing holes or tears. The vitreous, a gel-like substance that fills the eye, is normally loosely attached to the retina. As people age, the vitreous can liquefy and shrink, causing it to pull away from the retinal surface.
In individuals with lattice degeneration, the vitreous may be more firmly attached to the thinned retinal areas. When the vitreous pulls away, this traction can create a tear in the weakened lattice region. Fluid from the vitreous cavity can then pass through this tear and accumulate underneath the retina, causing it to separate from its underlying support layers. This separation is known as a retinal detachment, a serious condition that can lead to significant vision loss if not addressed promptly.
Diagnosis and Management Options
Lattice degeneration is typically diagnosed during a comprehensive dilated eye examination. An eye care professional uses special eye drops to widen the pupil, allowing a clear view of the peripheral retina. Instruments like a slit lamp or a binocular indirect ophthalmoscope help identify characteristic thinned patches, pigmentary changes, or white lines.
In most cases, lattice degeneration is stable and does not require active treatment. The majority of individuals with this condition will never experience complications such as a retinal tear or detachment. However, regular dilated eye exams are recommended to monitor the condition and promptly detect any changes. If symptoms of a retinal tear or detachment occur, immediate medical attention is important. In certain high-risk situations, such as the presence of a retinal tear, or if a retinal detachment has occurred in the other eye, prophylactic (preventative) treatment may be considered. This can involve laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy, procedures that create tiny burns or freeze spots around the lattice areas to strengthen the retina’s attachment to the underlying tissue.