Detached Retina

A detached retina

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a layer of support cells that lines the back of the eye. It is normally attached to the sensory retina layer.

In retinal detachment caused by a retinal tear, the sensory retina is pulled away from the RPE because fluid builds up between the two layers. Part or all of the retina comes off (detaches from) the back of the eye.

Blurred and lost vision can occur.

ByHealthwise Staff

Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Specialist Medical ReviewerCarol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology

Current as ofMarch 3, 2017

Current as of: March 3, 2017

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology