Vitreous opacities

Vitreous Opacities

Vitreous opacity refers to any abnormality occurring in the gel-like vitreous humour in the eye. It can manifest as light scattering due to optical changes in the vitreous, or due to pigmentation or other physical changes in the vitreous.

These conditions can be classified as either pigmented or non-pigmented. Pigmented opacities are usually due to one or more of the following types of clumping or aggregations of material in the vitreous:

• Hemorrhage
• Exudates
• Organic debris
• Calcification
• Devitrification

Various types of non-pigmented opacities can also occur in the vitreous. These include:

• Vitreous strands
• Vitreous tears or liquefaction
• Vitreous debris
• PVD (posterior vitreous detachment)

Vitreous opacities are mostly caused by aging, but can also occur due to other factors such as diabetic retinopathy, inflammation, trauma, surgery, radiation therapy, and certain medications. Vitreous opacities are usually benign but can lead to vision loss if left untreated.

Vitreous opacities can be treated depending on the cause. Treatment might include medication, laser surgery, vitrectomy, or a combination of these treatments. Some opacities are asymptomatic and do not require treatment. But if the opacity causes any symptoms, a comprehensive eye exam is necessary to find the underlying cause and the best treatment.