Lattice Degeneration
Lattice degeneration
is a peripheral
retina condition in which the retinal tissue is
thinned, atrophied and the blood vessels are
fibrosed in a "lattice-like" appearance.
Lattice lesions, usually localized, appear as
round/oval or linear patches in the far peripheral
retina. The typical
lattice degeneration patient is over 25 years of age
and may be
myopic (nearsighted).
It is typically found in both eyes. It is
estimated that 8 to 11 percent of the population has
peripheral retinal changes that are categorized as
lattice degeneration.
Lattice does not typically cause symptoms, but when
symptoms do occur, they include photopsia, or
flashing lights in the patient's
peripheral (side)
vision.
It is
believed that lattice has been associated with
higher risk of
retinal detachment. Retinal holes can
occur in the lesions and tractional retinal tears
can develop in rare cases.
Diagnosis of lattice degeneration is done by a
well-dilated, peripheral
retina examination called
ophthalmoscopy. During ophthalmoscopy, the
doctor may use scleral depression - a technique that
involves slight pressure placed on the outside of
the eye in order to give the doctor a better view of
the peripheral retina.
Treatment of lattice is typically prophylactic.
In rare cases, a "barrier" laser is applied to "tack
down" the retina surrounding these lesions to avoid
the possibility of retinal detachment. If a retinal
tear is noted near the lesion, preventative laser is
commonly done to avoid detachment complications.
Lattice degeneration is sometimes misdiagnosed.
If there are any suspicions of possible lattice, a
dilated peripheral retinal exam should be performed
by a vitreo-retinal
specialist and the symptomatic patient should be
followed regularly.
See also...
Interactive Eye Anatomy Animation |
