The retina is
made up of two layers.
- The sensory retina contains light-sensitive nerve cells.
- The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a
layer of support cells behind the sensory retina.
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.
|
By
|
Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
|
Adam Husney, MD, MD - Family Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
|
Carol L. Karp, MD - Ophthalmology |
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Last Revised
|
August 7, 2011 |