Causes of Detached Retina
Causes of detached retina are varied, but they all lead to the separation of the retina from the underlying layers that supply it with oxygen and nutrients. A detached retina can occur suddenly or gradually, and understanding the underlying causes can aid in prevention and early treatment.
Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment
This is the most common type and is caused by a tear or hole in the retina:
Ageing: As people age, the vitreous gel inside the eye shrinks and may pull away from the retina, causing a tear
Myopia (short-sightedness): People with severe myopia have longer eyeballs, which stretches the retina and makes it thinner and more prone to tearing
Eye injury or trauma: Blunt or penetrating injuries can cause tears or breaks in the retina
Previous eye surgery: Procedures like cataract removal increase the risk of retinal detachment, especially in the first year after surgery
Once a tear occurs, fluid from the vitreous gel can seep through the opening and collect underneath the retina, causing it to lift off.
Tractional Retinal Detachment | Causes of Detached Retina
This form is often seen in people with:
Diabetic retinopathy: Scar tissue from abnormal blood vessels pulls the retina away from its base
Retinal vein occlusion: Blocked blood vessels may lead to fibrosis and traction on the retina
Inflammatory conditions: Diseases like uveitis can result in scarring and traction
This type develops slowly and is typically painless.
Exudative Retinal Detachment
This type occurs when fluid builds up beneath the retina without any tears or breaks:
Tumours: Ocular melanoma or metastatic cancers can leak fluid under the retina
Inflammation: Conditions like scleritis or Coats’ disease can cause abnormal fluid accumulation
Systemic diseases: High blood pressure or kidney disorders may contribute to fluid leakage in the eye
Other Risk Factors
Family history of retinal detachment
Lattice degeneration: Thinning of the peripheral retina, increasing vulnerability
Extreme sports or sudden head movements: Though rare, can increase risk
In conclusion, causes of detached retina span age-related degeneration, trauma, disease, and anatomical predisposition. Knowing the risk factors allows at-risk individuals to monitor their eye health and seek urgent care when symptoms arise.
[Next: Symptoms of Detached Retina →]
