a question about the asymptomatic PVD

[rayxu]

Dear Doctor, if a asymptomatic PVD is a high risk of retinal tear? last week I was diagnosed the PVD in a regular eye examination, but I haven't any symptom. So I worry about the retinal tear very much. will the asymptomatic PVD be a high risk for retinal tear? Should I have my eye examined every week?  I appreciate your help very much!

[Christopher C Shen, MD]

Asymptomatic PVDs are usually not a problem.  Symptomatic ones tend to be more concerning, particularly if the symptoms are progressive (increased floaters, flashing lights, or decreased vision).   The presence of a PVD itself does not pose a risk for retinal tears.  Independent risk factors would include prior surgery, prior eye trauma, high myopia, or history of retinal tear in the fellow eye or any sort of preexisting retinal abnormality such as lattice degeneration.  The key to determining followup is noting increased floaters, flashing lights, or new onset vision loss, such as seeing a shadow or curtain obscuring one's view.  The presence of any combination of these symptoms warrants an immediate dilated exam by an ophthalmologist within 24hrs.  Otherwise, routine yearly exams are reasonable

[rayxu]

thanks for your answer so much! this is helpful for me.