What
is lattice degeneration?
Lattice degeneration is a thinning of the peripheral retina. It does not interfere
with central vision or cause any symptoms, so it is often undetected unless a
patient undergoes a thorough peripheral retinal exam.
Is this condition common?
Lattice degeneration occurs in about 7-8% of the population. 45% of those affected
have lattice degeneration in both eyes.
What causes lattice degeneration?
This condition is often inherited and is found more commonly in people who
are myopic (near-sighted).
Is any treatment recommended?
In many cases, no treatment is needed. The physician will most likely recommend
observation and discuss the symptoms that could suggest the development of
complications related to lattice. These include:
• The sudden onset of a shower of constant floaters
• Frequent light flashes
• Loss of peripheral vision like a curtain or veil covering a part of the
visual field
What are the possible complications of having
these thin areas?
Small holes may be present within the areas of lattice. There is also an increased
risk of developing larger tears in the retina due to the vitreous gel pulling
on the thin areas. In certain circumstances, such as when other surgical procedures
are planned for the eye (cataract surgery, lasik surgery), the risk of holes
or tears associated with lattice may be further increased.
TREATMENT
What are the treatment options?
In certain cases, when retinal holes or tears are present, recommendation for
either laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy may be made. The decision for
mode of treatment depends upon the location of the tear and whether there is
fluid associated with the tear.
How does the treatment work?
The goal of treatment is to seal the area surrounding the tear. With laser
photocoagulation, a bright, highly focused beam of light is used to seal
the area. In cryotherepy, the area surrounding the tear is frozen. In both
cases, this induces the eye to form a localized scar, which prevents fluid
from getting beneath the retina and causing a retinal detachment.
What should be expected after treatment?
After treatment, the eye may be a little sore for a couple of days. Usually
Tylenol or Advil and the application of a cold compress is sufficient to
relieve any discomfort.
Will vision be affected following treatment?
Vision may be somewhat blurred and “floaters” may be more obvious
in the days following treatment. The treatment does not “cure” the
floaters, but most patients report that they become less noticeable with time.
The goal of the treatment is to seal the holes or tears and/or lattice to prevent
retinal detachment.
What would be the warning signs that a retinal
detachment has occurred?
• Loss of side vision, like a curtain or shadow coming from your periphery
and moving toward the center
• A significant overall decrease in vision
Warning signs of retinal detachment or any significant
decrease in vision should be reported to your physician
immediately. |
