What is the most common differential diagnosis for retinal detachment?

The most common differential diagnosis for retinal detachment is retinoschisis. Retinoschisis involves a splitting or separation of the retinal layers, which can mimic the symptoms of retinal detachment, particularly in terms of visual disturbances and the perception of floaters or flashes of light.

Both conditions can present with similar clinical features, making retinoschisis a particularly relevant consideration when assessing a patient with potential retinal detachment. It is essential for healthcare providers to differentiate between these two conditions in order to determine the appropriate management and treatment plan.

While choroidal rupture, macular hole, and vitreous hemorrhage can also present with issues related to retinal health, they are less frequently confused with retinal detachment in clinical practice compared to retinoschisis, thereby solidifying retinoschisis as the most common differential diagnosis in this context.