Posterior Vitreous Detachment
What Is It?
The eye is filled with a jelly like substance
called the vitreous. A Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) is the
separation or detachment of the vitreous from the retinal tissue at
the back of the eye.
What Are The Symptoms?
Flashing lights and floaters are the usual symptoms.
Who Is At Risk?
PVD is a common phenomenon in people of all
ages and backgrounds. It is more common in those over 50 years.
What Is The Effect On Vision?
Usually none other than seeing black ‘fly
type’ dots or a ring floating around in the field of vision.
These floaters will persist but become less noticeable with time.
What Is The Treatment?
No treatment is available or is required for
the PVD itself as the condition is harmless.
Those with symptoms however should have the eyes checked immediately
to exclude the possibility of the more serious condition of Retinal
Detachment being present. To do this the pupils are dilated and a
detailed examination of the vitreous and retina is undertaken to look
for retinal tears and other complications that could lead to a retinal
detachment.
In 90% of cases there is no damage to the retina, however occasionally
precautionary laser treatment is necessary to treat any at risk areas
of the retinal tissue.
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| If symptoms worsen to include a black shadow, cobwebs
or sudden loss of vision, immediate medical attention should be sought
at the nearest eye casualty department. These effects may indicate
that a Retinal Detachment
has occured. |
Further Information
More information on Posterior Vitreous Detachment is available by
clicking these links:
http://www.rnib.org.uk/xpedio/groups/public/documents/PublicWebsite/public_rnib003660.hcsp
http://www.eye-care.org.uk/item_view.php?item_id=98&content_id=4
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