Role of the Vitreous in Retinal Pathology: A Narrative Review

Abstract

The vitreous body is an anatomically and biochemically complex structure. Because of its proximity and firm adherence to the retina, researchers have examined the link between these two structures and how their individual pathologies might be connected. Several experimental and clinical studies have already demonstrated the important role of vitreous in the pathogenesis of retinal disorders. This narrative review highlights the role of the vitreous in retinal diseases and the improvements that have been made since the introduction of optical coherence tomography. This leads to a better understanding of vitreoretinal diseases and demonstrates its determinant role in other retinal pathologies, such as diabetic retinopathy or age-related macular degeneration. As we deepen our knowledge of the vitreous's structure, function, and abnormal conditions, we can better link the changes in diseases and identify effective treatments.

Cataract progression after primary pars plana vitrectomy for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachments in young adults

“…Similarly, PPV reduces the normal oxygen gradient within the eye through multiple mechanisms including decreased vitreous oxygen consumption and increased oxygen diffusion throughout the vitreous cavity, and exposes the lens to higher oxygen concentrations [ 22 , 25 ]. As the origin of subretinal fluid in a RRD is liquified vitreous, it is possible that the vitreous is more liquefied in macula-off detachments as more subretinal fluid is necessary to advance a peripheral detachment towards the macula [ 26 ]. Therefore, a thorough core and peripheral vitrectomy is able to be performed in macula-off RRDs as there is less vitreous gel.…”