Retina

The retina is the thin, but very complex “digitizing” membrane that captures the image projected by the cornea and lens, converts the image into digital electrical impulses, and transmit the information back to the brain.

What can go wrong?

The retina is a complex sensory tissue that lines the inner surface of the eye and sends a digitized signal to the brain allowing us to “see”. Most of the common retinal pathologies are a result of problems with the retinal blood supply. Retinal vessels can leak blood or blood proteins into the retina, or can constrict and create a condition where there is a lack of blood flow to the retina. In either case, blood leakage or an insufficient blood supply, the retina can die leading to a reduction of vision or blindness. Common retinal pathologies include macular degenerations, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal artery or vein occlusions.