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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.

Author Debby Golonka, MPH
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, FRCSC - Ophthalmology
Last Updated August 26, 2009

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: August 26, 2009
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