Lattice degeneration is a condition that causes thinning and weakening of the peripheral retina, the light-sensitive layer of cells lining the back of the eye, which can lead to a retinal tear.

The vitreous, a clear, gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye, is contained in a sac loosely attached to the retina. As one ages, the vitreous takes on a more fluid consistency, and the sac sometimes separates from the retina. In lattice degeneration, there are places where the sac is strongly attached to the retina and pulls on it. This pulling weakens the retina and creates “lattice” lesions, which look like white, crisscrossing lines on the retina.

If part of the vitreous sac becomes detached from the retina, the friction and pulling at the attachment site can create a tear in the retina. Lattice degeneration can sometimes cause retinal detachments when holes or tears in the lattice formation permit vitreous fluid to flow under the retina.

Fortunately, most people with lattice degeneration do not develop a retinal detachment. Preventive treatment of lattice degeneration is indicated in some cases, but usually, the ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.) will only need to monitor the condition. If you have a history of lattice degeneration, you should be aware of the symptoms of retinal tears and detachment.

(c) 2007 The American Academy of Ophthalmology