What is retinal detachment?

Retinal detachment refers to the condition where the sensory retina, which is the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye, separates from the underlying pigmented epithelium. This separation disrupts the normal function of the retina and can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly.

In this context, the sensory retina plays a critical role in capturing visual information, while the pigmented epithelium supports the retina and helps maintain its health by providing essential nutrients and removing waste products. When detachment occurs, the retina can no longer efficiently transduce light into visual signals, which can lead to symptoms such as sudden flashes of light, an increase in floaters, or a shadow or curtain effect across the field of vision.

Understanding this, the other options do not accurately describe retinal detachment. The separation of the optic nerve from the retina does not represent a common issue affecting the retina directly. Swelling of the optic disc, known as papilledema, and inflammation of the retina, referred to as retinitis, signify other conditions that may affect vision but do not involve the physical detachment of the retina from its supporting layers.