## Classification of Retinal Detachment **Key Point:** Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) accounts for approximately 90% of all retinal detachments and is the most clinically significant type encountered in practice. ### Types and Frequency | Type | Frequency | Mechanism | Common Causes | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Rhegmatogenous | ~90% | Break in neurosensory retina allowing vitreous fluid to seep beneath | Posterior vitreous detachment, high myopia, lattice degeneration | | Tractional | ~8% | Scar tissue mechanically pulls retina off | Proliferative diabetic retinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity | | Exudative | ~2% | Fluid accumulation beneath intact retina | Choroidal tumors, inflammation, Harada disease | ### Pathophysiology of RRD **High-Yield:** The sequence in rhegmatogenous detachment is: 1. Retinal break (hole or tear) develops 2. Liquefied vitreous seeps through the break 3. Neurosensory retina separates from retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) 4. Progressive detachment occurs if untreated **Clinical Pearl:** RRD is a true ophthalmologic emergency requiring urgent intervention within 24–48 hours, especially if the macula is threatened, to prevent permanent vision loss. **Mnemonic: RRD Risk Factors — "MOLD"** - **M**yopia (high) - **O**lder age (but can occur at any age) - **L**attice degeneration - **D**ystrophies and prior vitreoretinal surgery [cite:Parson's Diseases of the Eye 21e Ch 10] 
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