BCEN CEN Practice Question

Sudden floaters combined with photopsia (flashes of light) suggest that the retina is being tugged or has torn, placing the patient at high risk for retinal detachment. Detachment occurs when the neurosensory retina separates from the underlying pigment epithelium, and it can rapidly lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Although posterior vitreous detachment can cause similar complaints, it is usually benign; optic neuritis and conjunctivitis do not typically produce floaters and flashes. Immediate ophthalmologic evaluation is essential for suspected retinal detachment.