Posterior vitreous detachment

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Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) is a condition of the eye in which the vitreous membrane separates from the retina. Pronounced as pos·te·ri·or vi·tre·ous de·tach·ment, the term originates from the Latin words 'posterior' meaning 'back', 'vitreous' from 'vitreus' meaning 'glassy', and 'detachment' from 'detachare' meaning 'to unfasten'.

Overview

The vitreous humor, a gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina, is firmly attached to the retina at birth. As we age, the vitreous humor may shrink and pull away from the retina, leading to a posterior vitreous detachment. This is a common condition, often associated with myopia and cataract surgery.

Symptoms

Symptoms of posterior vitreous detachment include floaters, flashes of light, and a ring of floaters or hairs just to the temporal side of the central vision. However, most people have no symptoms, and posterior vitreous detachment does not directly threaten vision.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of posterior vitreous detachment is typically made by an ophthalmologist or optometrist who will examine the eye using ophthalmoscopy or ultrasound.

Treatment

Treatment is not usually necessary for posterior vitreous detachment unless it leads to a retinal detachment. In such cases, laser surgery or cryotherapy may be used to repair the detachment.

See Also

External links

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