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Detached retina

Illustration copyright 2001, 2003 Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

The retina is made up of two layers: the sensory retina and the retinal pigment epithelium, or RPE. The sensory retina contains light-sensitive nerve cells. The RPE is a layer of support cells behind the sensory retina.

In retinal detachment, the sensory retina pulls away from the RPE, and fluid builds up between the two layers. Or a retinal tear can cause fluid to collect under the retina and may cause the retina to detach.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Christopher J. Rudnisky - Ophthalmology
Last Revised August 26, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 26, 2009
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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