From the Guidelines
Lattice degeneration is primarily caused by a combination of genetic factors, myopia, and aging-related changes to the vitreous, leading to thinning and weakening of the peripheral retina. The condition involves abnormal vitreoretinal adhesions and atrophy of the retinal tissue, creating a lattice-like pattern of intersecting white lines, as noted in a study published in the journal Ophthalmology 1. The exact genetic mechanisms remain unclear, but there is often a family history of the condition, and it is present in 6% to 8% of the population, increasing the risk of retinal detachment 1. Other contributing factors may include myopia (nearsightedness), which stretches the retina and increases risk, and aging-related changes to the vitreous, such as liquefaction of the vitreous gel (syneresis) contributing to the development of the condition 1. Some key points to consider about lattice degeneration include:
- It is associated with a higher risk of retinal tear or detachment formation, especially in individuals with perivascular or radial lattice 1
- The risk of retinal detachment is increased in individuals with lattice degeneration, particularly those with myopia or a family history of retinal detachment 1
- Regular dilated eye examinations are recommended for monitoring, especially in high-risk individuals with significant myopia or family history of retinal detachment 1. As the vitreous detaches from the retina with age, it can pull on these already weakened areas, potentially leading to retinal tears or detachment, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and prompt treatment if complications arise 1.
From the Research
Cause of Lattice Degeneration
The cause of lattice degeneration, a condition affecting the retina, is not explicitly stated in the provided studies. However, the following factors are associated with lattice degeneration:
- Variations in clinical appearance, with lattice lesions favoring the vertical meridians between the equator and the ora serrata 2
- Association between the vitreous and retina in lattice lesions, which may be responsible for the majority of lattice-induced retinal detachments 2
- Posterior vitreous separation in the presence of abnormally strong vitreoretinal adherence, which can trigger a retinal tear and lead to retinal detachment 2, 3, 4
- Refractive error, particularly myopia, which can increase the risk of retinal detachment in individuals with lattice degeneration 5, 6
Risk Factors for Retinal Detachment
The following risk factors for retinal detachment are associated with lattice degeneration: