What is it?
A retinal tear is a break in the retina. Most tears occur when the vitreous gel separates from the retina with age (posterior vitreous detachment) and pulls on an area where it is firmly attached. Fluid can pass through the tear and lift the retina, leading to retinal detachment.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms are a sudden onset of floaters, sometimes described as cobwebs or specks, and flashes of light, especially at the edge of vision. Some tears cause no symptoms.
Possible causes
Traction from the vitreous gel during posterior vitreous detachment is the most common cause. Eye injury can also cause retinal tears.
Risk factors
Risk factors include high myopia, increasing age, lattice degeneration, previous retinal tears or detachment, eye injury and previous eye surgery.
Diagnosis
A dilated examination of the whole retina, including the far periphery, is needed to find tears. Ultrasound may be used if bleeding inside the eye blocks the view.
Treatment options
Many retinal tears are treated with laser photocoagulation or freezing treatment (cryotherapy), which seals the retina around the tear and lowers the risk of detachment. Some tears do not need treatment; the eye doctor decides based on the type and location of the tear.
When urgent evaluation may be needed
Seek ophthalmic evaluation the same day if you notice a sudden increase in floaters, new flashes of light, or a shadow over part of your vision.
Follow-up
Follow-up examinations are usually recommended in the weeks after a tear is found or treated, because new tears can develop. Report any new symptoms immediately.
Information on this website is educational and does not replace an in-person medical examination, diagnosis or individual medical advice.