Retinal detachments occur when a tear in the retina allows
liquified vitreous to pass beneath the retina and
separate it from the underlying pigmented epithelium (RPE).
A tear in the retina may occur from traction on the retina by the vitreous. This traction may be the result of the vitreous
separating from the inner surface of retina, a posterior vitreous
detachment (PVD). PVD's are a common occurrence with aging, rare before age 60, but in
50% - 60% of people by age 70.
Superior retinal detachment: This patient had an acute PVD with symptoms of new floaters and flashing lights.
One day after symptoms she noted an inferior visual field defect and on examination was
found to have this retinal detachment.
