Which type of retinal detachment is the most common form?

• A. Rhegmatogenous
• B. Tractional
• C. Exudative (serous)
• D. Combined type

Answer: (A)

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment is the most common form. It happens when a full-thickness tear or break in the retina allows vitreous humor to pass through the opening and seep underneath, lifting the neurosensory retina away from the underlying pigment epithelium. The accumulated subretinal fluid causes the separation and can progress as long as the tear permits fluid to enter. This mechanism is seen with aging, myopia, lattice degeneration, trauma, or after cataract surgery, which is why it accounts for the majority of detachments.

Tractional detachment, in contrast, results from fibrovascular membranes pulling on the retina without a retinal break, often occurring in proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Exudative (serous) detachment is due to fluid accumulation from leakage of choroidal or retinal vessels without any retinal tear. The combined type involves elements of both detachment mechanisms and is less common.