Learn about vitreous degeneration: causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options to prevent retinal detachment and protect vision.
What is Vitreous Degeneration?
Normally, the eye contains vitreous (Vitreaus) in the posterior chamber to maintain its shape. It starts as a clear, gel-like substance that adheres to the retina. The vitreous is composed of 99% water and the remaining part includes proteins and fibers such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, and mineral salts. As people reach middle age—or earlier in some cases—the vitreous degenerates, becoming more liquid. The small fibers inside shrink and clump together into cloudy deposits, and the vitreous detaches from the retina’s surface. This appears as dark floaters in the eye—small spots, strands, or rings—called Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD), caused by vitreous pulling away around the optic nerve head.During detachment, some areas where the vitreous is firmly attached to the retina may tear,leading to retinal tears. Patients often see flashes of light, especially in the dark. If untreated, this can cause retinal detachment and permanent vision loss.
What Causes Vitreous Degeneration?
Vitreous degeneration can occur due to several causes:
1. Age-related degeneration, the most common cause.
2. Inflammation in the vitreous and retina (Intermediate and Posterior uveitis), which may result from autoimmune reactions, infections,
or other systemic conditions such as cancer.
3. Vitreous hemorrhage caused by trauma or vascular disorders.
What Are the Risk Factors?
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Age over 50 years
- Previous eye injury
- Complications after cataract surgery
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Eye inflammation
What Should You Do if You Have Vitreous Degeneration?
Although vitreous degeneration is age-related, if you notice any abnormal symptoms described above, promptly see an eye specialist for diagnosis and to identify the cause. This is especially urgent if you suddenly notice new floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow—see a doctor immediately.
How to Prepare for an Eye Examination
Patients with vitreous degeneration require vitreous and retinal examination. The doctor will first check the anterior eye, then use eye drops to dilate the pupils for a detailed view of the retina and vitreous. After dilation, vision becomes blurred, light-sensitive, and near vision is impaired for 4–6 hours. It is unsafe to drive afterward, and sunglasses are recommended to reduce light sensitivity.
How Is Vitreous Degeneration Treated?
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Most cases of vitreous degeneration require no treatment. Dark floaters may be annoying but are not dangerous,
and generally the eyes adapt. Floaters and flashes gradually decrease and may disappear.
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If retinal tears are detected, laser therapy or cryotherapy is required to seal the tears and prevent retinal detachment.
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Treat other eye diseases causing vitreous degeneration.
