Schisis Derived from Latin Word Meaning Splitting

Ingrid Bockelmann Retinoschisis (schisis – derived from Latin word meaning “splitting”)

Retinoschisis is a degenerative change Visual field is sharply demarcated and a form of macular degeneration, in (peripheral vision loss). which microcysts form inside the retina, If both layers of retina develop holes, damaging the retinal nerve tissue and there is a chance of retinal detachment. gradually spliting it into two layers. There is also a chance of retinal splitting. Juvenile retinoschisis (congential retinoschisis) is a congenital, genetic Common Treatments anomaly affecting primarily boys and Visual acuity cannot be improved with young men, in which the retina is split glasses due to retinal tissue damage. into two layers. A drug called dorzolamide may improve retinal health and restore some vision. Parts of the Visual System Affected Routine monitoring by an eye care Retinal holes may develop in either the professional every six to twelve months inner layer or outer layer or in both is recommended. layers of the retina. If possible, the retinoschisis should be Retinal cells in the macula - the central photographed to monitor for point of vision at the back of the eye, are progression. affected. Surgery can correct retinal detachment, but no surgery or medication can correct Effects of Retinoschisis on the Visual a split retina. System Progression is slow and may take Anticipated Functional Implications months or years to affect vision. of Retinoschisis In the juvenile type, the condition exists Blindness is rare, but reading vision may at birth, but symptoms do not typically be very limited in some men who are appear until the age of 10. These considered “legally blind” due to low symptoms include: decline in vision, visual acuity. strabismus – inability of both eyes to In the juvenile type, use of low vision focus on an object, and nystagmus – aids (electronic, computer-based, optical roving, involuntary eye movement. aids) and Orientation and Mobility Central vision is typically impaired, with training may be needed. loss of fine visual detail.

References http://www.blindness.org/index.php?view=article&catid=38%3Aother-retinal-diseases&id=252%3Aretinoschisis&option=com _content&Itemid=88

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Handbook of Ocular Disease Management. (2008). Acquired Retinoschisis. Retrieved July 1, 2009, from http://www.revoptom.com/handbook/sect5k.htm http://www.kellogg.umich.edu/patientcare/conditions/retinoschisis.html