What is the function of the vitreous and retina in the eye?

The retina is a very delicate, but extremely complex structure that lines the inner wall of the back of the eye. It contains the light sensitive elements – the rods and cones that allow us to see in dim and bright lighting conditions. It also contains numerous other cells and nerve fibers that are required for information processing. The vitreous is a jelly-like mass that fills up the back of the eye and has shock absorbing and nutritional functions.

What can go wrong with these structures?

In premature children with low birth weight, retinal changes affecting sight can develop – retinopathy of prematurity. These and other developmental abnormalities of the retina and vitreous can also affect vision and need early care. Some infections can also affect these structures in children. The most serious lesion however, is a tumor termed retinoblastoma, arising from the retinal cells, threatening the eye and life of the baby.

In young adults, injuries can cause significant changes that affect sight. Sometimes however, there can be changes in the structure of the vitreous gel that are seen as floaters in front of the eye. These are usually harmless, although it is wise to have an eye exam to rule out serious retinal problems.

In older people, changes in the vitreous can result in pulling forces on the retina that can cause either a vitreous bleed, or a retinal detachment. A sudden increase in floaters with or without flashes of light is a matter for concern. Other aging changes can affect the center of the retina – the macula, an area needed for fine vision – changes in this zone result in black shadows in central vision, blurring or distortion of straight lines – metamorphopsia.

The retina is affected in other systemic diseases – notable, diabetes mellitus and systemic hypertension. Blockage of the retinal vessels can result in vision threatening changes unless treated promptly. Infections of the structures within the eye are a very serious problem – endophthalmitis, and may occur after eye surgery. Prompt care is often successful in restoring sight in these eyes.

How will I know if I have these problems?

Since the primary function of these structures is to provide vision, most diseases affect sight – blurring, loss of field, floaters, flashes, central black shadows, and total loss of vision may occur. However, changes in the peripheral retina can be silent and require a detailed eye exam for detection.

What are the common causes of these diseases?

Genetic causes, injuries, infection, tumors, systemic conditions, high refractive errors, and aging changes account for most of these diseases.

How can these conditions be detected?

A detailed evaluation of the back of the eye after dilation of the pupil, using an instrument called the indirect ophthalmoscope is required. In patients with diabetes, an imaging of blood flow in the retinal vessels is helpful – fundus fluorescein angiography. In age related changes of the central retina, two other examinations – indocyanine green angiography and optical coherence tomography may be needed. If there is bleeding in the vitreous, ultrasonographic examination can help identify retinal changes.

How can these conditions be treated?

In changes of the blood vessels, the use of retinal lasers is often helpful, and these are also used to prevent serious eye disease in diabetics. In patients with infections, antibiotics; and in those with inflammation, steroids can be used. If there is serious vitreous bleeding or retinal detachment, surgery is required to restore vision. In age related central retinal disease, in addition to laser therapy, the injection of medications into the eye can be helpful.

Recent advances in vitreous and retinal diseases?

Instruments are now available that allow the diagnosis of these diseases at a very early stage. Newer treatment options include photodynamic therapy for subretinal neovascularization, the use of intravitreal triamcinolone injections for diabetic macular edema, and anti VEGF agents for age related macular degeneration, all of which have improved our ability to treat retinal diseases.

General information

High myopes may be prone to central and peripheral retinal changes and should have a routine yearly eye exam. Similarly, diabetics and hypertensives should have a yearly eye exam in addition to good control of the systemic condition to protect their eyes and sight.