Lattice degeneration in the retina is an area or areas of thinning, usually in the periphery of the retina. This results in an increased risk of retinal tears and retinal holes, which may lead to retinal detachment.

Cause

Lattice degeneration is a condition that is found in nearly 10% of the population, and is more common in very near sighted patients.

Symptoms

You may never notice any symptoms of lattice degeneration.  You may notice a sudden increase in floaters, web like strings appearing in your vision, or flashes of light in the dark or a dimly lit room.

Diagnosis

This condition is occasionally found on a routine dilated eye examination, but is more commonly discovered on a thorough retina evaluation.  Often the first sign of the condition are symptoms related to a tear or hole that has occurred as a result of the condition.

Treatment

Lattice degeneration may be very mild, have no symptoms, and require no treatment.  Moderate to severe lattice generation, together with symptoms present, will require laser treatment to the areas of the retina at risk.

Prevention

Lattice degeneration cannot be prevented.  Once it is diagnosed however, the risks of complications from lattice degeneration may be greatly reduced with prophylactic laser treatments.

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