J Korean Med Assoc.  2002 Feb;45(2):191-197. 10.5124/jkma.2002.45.2.191.

Eye Floaters

• Park JM

• KMID: 2347642
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2002.45.2.191

Abstract

The vitreous body is a gel-like structure occupying a space of about 4 cc posterior to the intraocular lens and provides an optically clear medium for light transmission. It has a complex physical and chemical composition and structure consists primarily of water, collagen, and hyaluronic acid. Floaters are tiny dark specks that can be seen in the visual field, especially when looking at the blue sky, a white wall, or any other uninterrupted, light colored expanse. They are created from tiny clumps in the clear, jelly-like substance inside the eyeball. Floaters occur in different sizes and shapes. They may appear as little dots, threads, or hairy clumps. Floating specks are most commonly caused by the posterior vitreous detachment due to thickening and shrinkage of the vitreous, frequently starting in middle ages but can also be caused by blood or inflammatory cells. In most cases, floaters are normal and harmless. However, a sudden increase in number may indicate a damage to certain internal structures of the eye. Any case with an acute onset of floaters or flashing lights should be carefully examined for the vitreoretinal condition. It should be borne in mind that the peripheral retina and vitreous can be visualized only in a dilated pupil, with careful examination using binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy or contact lens biomicroscopy.

Keyword

Floater; Vitreoretinal condition; Posterior vitreous detachment

MeSH Terms

Collagen
Hyaluronic Acid
Lenses, Intraocular
Ophthalmoscopy
Pupil
Retina
Telescopes
Visual Fields
Vitreous Body
Vitreous Detachment
Water
Collagen
Hyaluronic Acid
Water