Subretinale

Subretinale is a term used in some languages, such as Dutch, to refer to the subretinal space. In English, this area is typically called the subretinal space or subretinal region, describing the potential space between the neurosensory retina and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Normally, this space is collapsed, but it can become filled or widened by fluid, blood, or inflammatory or exudative material in disease.

Anatomy and appearance: The subretinal space lies just above the RPE and below the outer segments of the photoreceptors. It can hold fluid in various conditions, and its expansion is detectable with clinical examination and imaging methods such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), which shows a distinct space between the retina and the RPE.

Clinical relevance: Subretinal fluid or material is seen in several retinal disorders. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment involves fluid accumulating in the subretinal space, causing separation of the retina from the underlying tissues. Serous or inflammatory detachments, central serous chorioretinopathy, and neovascular conditions such as age-related macular degeneration can also produce subretinal fluid or hemorrhage. Subretinal lesions may include membranes or exudates that affect vision and may require specific treatment.

Diagnosis and management: Evaluation relies on ophthalmoscopy, OCT, and other imaging modalities. Treatment depends on the underlying cause: detachments may require surgical reattachment, while inflammatory or serous detachments are managed medically or observation, with anti-VEGF therapy used for neovascular conditions. Subretinal fluid can sometimes resolve spontaneously, particularly in evolving serous detachments or after appropriate treatment of the underlying disease.

See also: retina, retinal detachment, retinal pigment epithelium, optical coherence tomography.