What Is Lattice Degeneration?

Lattice degeneration is a thinning of the retina that happens over time. About 10 percent of people (1 in 10) have lattice degeneration. You need a healthy retina to see clearly, but most with this condition never have any symptoms or a loss in vision.

Rarely, lattice degeneration can lead to retinal detachment. This can cause vision loss, so those with lattice degeneration need regular eye exams.

What causes lattice degeneration?

Doctors don’t know for sure what causes lattice degeneration. It’s not passed down from parents, but people with a family history are more likely to have it. It’s also more common in people with:

• myopia (nearsightedness)
• certain diseases like Stickler syndrome and Marfan syndrome

What are symptoms of lattice degeneration?

Lattice degeneration does not have any symptoms. But because the retina is thinner with lattice degeneration, it may tear, break, or get holes easier. This can lead to retinal detachment, which can cause blindness without treatment.

Symptoms of retinal tears and detachment are:

• new floaters
• flashing lights
• a shadow or gray curtain blocking a part of your vision
• blurry vision or change in vision

If you have any of these symptoms, see your ophthalmologist right away. Treatment can save your vision.