Lattice Degeneration is an atrophic disease of the peripheral retina which is marked by the presence of linear patches of retinal thinning. By the second decade of life, the prevalence of lattice degeneration is at the peak level. It is considered to be minimally progressive but retinal detachment may result as its rare complication.
The retina is the layer of specialized nerve tissue lining the back of the eye that allows you to see. Generally, only a small part of the center of the retina is used to view most of the things. The far peripheral retina, responsible for the extreme side vision can degenerate and become very week and thin in some cases. Lattice degeneration is the most common type of peripheral retinal degeneration. It is seen in about 1 out of every 10 people in the general population. It is common for the condition to be found in both eyes. Lattice degeneration also commonly leads to the development of retinal holes.
The pathogenesis of lattice degeneration is not well understood, although several theories have been proposed. Regional developmental absence of the internal limiting membrane versus abnormal vitreoretinal traction dynamics appears to be the most cogent argument proposed.
The cause is not known but is more common in near-sighted people and generally runs in families.
Lattice Degeneration can increase your risk of developing a retinal detachment. Retinal detachment, despite being rare is a very serious problem as it can result in blindness and permanent vision loss. Retinal detachment is likely due to the retinal thinning and weakening and development of holes associated with lattice degeneration that further creates areas which are more susceptible to retinal detachment. Around one third of retinal detachments are related to lattice degeneration. People with lattice degeneration have about 1 percent of overall lifetime risk of a retinal detachment.
Usually there are no symptoms associated with Lattice Degeneration. Complications such as a detachment or tear of the retina typically results in the display of symptoms related to lattice degeneration. If a person has ever experienced the onset of flashing lights, new floaters or a loss of the side vision you need a prompt examination to rule out any serious problems with the retina.
In some cases laser treatment is employed for sealing retinal holes and associated lattice degeneration. Laser treatment is a simple procedure that can be completed in the office. In patients who are asymptomatic, laser does not help in effective prevention of retinal detachment. Hence, in all cases of lattice degeneration, prophylactic treatment is generally not very useful.
Treatment
Lattice Degeneration treatment in India at Sanjeevan focuses on the improvement of the retinal health and increasing the blood flow to the retina, this brings about oxygenation of the retina thereby preventing the risk of retinal detachment. The treatment follows up with regular testing and antioxidant supplements to maintain and even improve the condition of the retina.