Retinopathy Health Dictionary

Disease of the retina, usually caused by diabetes mellitus or persistent hypertension.

In diabetic retinopathy, the capillaries in the retina are affected by aneurysms, leak fluid, and bleed into the retina. Abnormal capillaries then grow on the retinal surface. As these are fragile, vitreous haemorrhage may occur. Fibrous tissue may also grow into the vitreous humour. Treatment by laser surgery can often halt the progress of the condition.

In hypertensive retinopathy the retinal arteries become narrowed. Areas of retina may be destroyed, and bleeding and white deposits may occur in the retina.

(See also retrolental fibroplasia.)

See EYE, DISORDERS OF – Retina, disorders of.

n. any of various disorders of the retina resulting in impairment or loss of vision. It is usually due to damage to the blood vessels of the retina, occurring (for example) as a complication of longstanding diabetes (diabetic retinopathy), high blood pressure, or AIDS (AIDS retinopathy). In diabetic retinopathy, haemorrhaging or exudation may occur, either from damaged vessels into the retina or from new abnormal vessels (see neovascularization) into the vitreous humour. The later stages require laser treatment (see photocoagulation). In the UK all people with diabetes are screened using annual digital retinal photography. The warning signs of potentially sight-threatening retinal changes can be spotted and referral to a specialist eye clinic made for further assessment and intervention to prevent a deterioration in vision. Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), formerly known as retrolental fibroplasia, is the abnormal growth of developing retinal blood vessels seen in premature infants. It may be mild and resolve spontaneously or severe enough to lead to blindness if untreated.