Posterior vitreous detachment

Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Illustration of Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Introduction

Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) is an eye condition where the vitreous membrane separates from the retina. It primarily occurs as a natural part of aging.

Pathophysiology

PVD involves the separation of the posterior hyaloid membrane from the retina posterior to the vitreous base, a 3-4 mm attachment to the ora serrata. The process is often due to changes in the vitreous humor consistency and volume with age.

Epidemiology

• Prevalence in Older Adults

Over 75% of individuals over the age of 65 experience PVD. The condition becomes increasingly common with advancing age.

• Occurrence in Middle-Aged Individuals

While less frequent in people in their 40s and 50s, PVD is not uncommon in this age group.

• Gender Differences

Some studies indicate a higher prevalence of PVD in women compared to men.

Clinical Features

Symptoms of PVD can include:

• Floaters
• Flashes of light
• A ring-shaped floater, indicative of a Weiss ring

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of PVD is primarily based on patient history and a comprehensive eye examination, including:

• Ophthalmoscopy
• Slit lamp examination
• OCT scans in some cases

Management and Prognosis

Most cases of PVD are benign and do not require treatment. However, patients should be monitored for complications like:

• Retinal detachment
• Retinal tear

Patient Education

Patients with PVD should be educated about symptoms of retinal detachment and the importance of timely ophthalmologic evaluation if these symptoms occur.

References

1. Johnson, M. W. (2010). Posterior vitreous detachment: Evolution and complications of its early stages. American Journal of Ophthalmology, 149(3), 371-382.
2. Hikichi, T., Yoshida, A., & Akiba, J. (1995). Rate of posterior vitreous detachment in women with idiopathic macular hole. Archives of Ophthalmology, 113(6), 724-728.

See Also

• Vitreous body
• Retina
• Ophthalmology

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