What leads to rhegmatogenous retinal detachment?

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment occurs primarily due to a tear or break in the neuronal layer of the retina, which allows the vitreous fluid to seep through the defect and accumulate behind the retina. This separation disrupts the sensory retina from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium, compromising its blood supply. The retinal cells begin to die, leading to vision loss. The presence of a tear is critical since it creates the pathway for fluid accumulation, distinguishing rhegmatogenous detachment from other types that might be caused by factors such as inflammation or fluid accumulation without an identifiable break. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention in patients at risk for retinal detachment.