What is Lattice Degeneration?

Any eye condition signaling degeneration or deterioration of vision quality raises concerns about potential and permanent vision loss. With any diagnosis, gaining knowledge about the disease, preparing for symptoms and exploring treatment options can demystify expectations. There are many retinal conditions that can lead to vision loss, especially if early intervention is ignored. However, it is important to understand that while lattice degeneration can lead to complications, it does not necessarily result in blindness. Here’s a closer look at the condition and its implications for vision.

Lattice degeneration involves the thinning and weakening of the retina, forming a lattice-like pattern. Named for its characteristic lattice or crisscrossed appearance, this condition typically affects both eyes and is more prevalent in people who are nearsighted (myopic). While the condition itself is usually benign and asymptomatic, it can increase the risk of retinal tears or detachment. Retinal detachment, if left untreated, can lead to significant vision loss and potentially blindness.

The exact cause of lattice degeneration is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to genetic factors and the natural aging process of the eye. Key risk factors include nearsightedness, family history and age. Nearsightedness occurs when the eye is elongated or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This results in clear vision for close objects but blurred vision for distant ones. Myopia can vary in severity and often progresses during childhood and adolescence. In myopia, the elongated shape of the eyeball stretches the retina, making it thinner and more prone to developing lattice degeneration. Both conditions may share genetic predispositions. If you have a family history of myopia or lattice degeneration, you are more likely to develop these conditions. The constant focusing effort required in myopia can put additional stress on the retina, increasing the likelihood of lattice degeneration. Age is a significant element influencing the onset and progression of lattice degeneration. In adults, particularly those over 20, the likelihood of being diagnosed with lattice degeneration increases. This age group may start experiencing floaters or flashes of light, prompting further investigation and diagnosis during routine eye exams. Retinal tears and detachments increase as one grows older due to cumulative wear and tear on the retina and other age-related changes in eye health.

Many retinal diseases share the same symptoms and lattice degeneration is no different. Be vigilant for the following: sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, curtain-like shadows over the field of vision and any sudden, noticeable vision loss. Most cases of lattice degeneration do not require treatment. However, regular monitoring by an eye care professional is essential to ensure the condition does not progress to retinal detachment. If a retinal tear is detected, treatment options include laser photocoagulation, where a laser is used to create a scar around the tear, preventing detachment or cryopexy, a freezing therapy to seal retinal tears. Lattice degeneration requires awareness and regular monitoring to prevent potential complications. Routine comprehensive eye exams are crucial for detecting retinal problems like lattice degeneration because they allow eye care professionals to thoroughly examine the retina for early signs of thinning or weakening that might otherwise go unnoticed. Early detection through these exams can prevent severe complications such as retinal tears and detachment, preserving vision and overall eye health. To schedule your appointment with Associated Retina Consultants, contact us by 602-242-4928 or WEBSITE.