Lattice retinal degeneration is thinning of the retina that can occur over time. About 10 percent of the general population has this retinal degenerative condition. Patients with this condition are generally asymptomatic and the lattice lesions are most commonly found incidentally during routine retinal exams. There is an association between lattice degeneration and certain conditions such as myopia.

This peripheral retinal degeneration or thinning is associated with atrophic retinal holes and retinal tears which can lead to retinal detachment and subsequent vision loss. As such, those with lattice degeneration need regular thorough dilated fundus exams.

The etiology of lattice degeneration is unknown but the lesions generally share 3 findings:

  • Retinal thinning
  • Vitreous liquefaction overlying the thinned retina
  • Tight vitreoretinal adhesion at the margins of the lesion
It is believed the adherence of vitreous at the lesion margins increases the risk of retinal tears or subsequent retinal detachments. If and when complications such as retinal tears develop, it is imperative to seek treatment urgently to prevent retinal detachment and vision loss.

Symptoms of retinal tears and retinal detachment may include:

  • Photopsia or flashes
  • Floaters
  • Peripheral visual field loss
  • Loss of vision

Laser photocoagulation is the preferred treatment for retinal tears and lattice lesions at risk for retinal detachment.


Fundus photo showing before (A) and after laser photocoagulation (B) of a retinal tear associated with lattice retinal degeneration.

If you have lattice retinal degeneration, it’s important to have a thorough retinal evaluation routinely to ensure no peripheral retinal defects have developed that require treatment.

Source: American Academy of Ophthalmology