What is a split retina?
MAY 09, 2012
Question:
My ophthalmologist found a suspected torn retina and sent me to another more specialized doctor. He performed the exam again and said that the retina was not detached but "split." I can find no information anywhere on "split" retina. I hope that you can shed some light on this subject for me.
Answer:
A "split" retina is termed retinoschisis. Although retinoschisis may look like a retinal detachment, retinoschisis usually does not cause visual loss and typically follows a benign course. However, rarely retinoschisis may progress or be associated with a retinal detachment, but usually this will be associated with symptoms such as flashing lights, loss of peripheral vision or floaters before there is loss of central or reading vision. Typically, people with retinoschisis should be examined at least once a year to be sure that the condition remains stable.