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Understanding vitreomacular traction: Basic concepts and clinical implications
1
Students’ Scientific Club, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
2
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
Corresponding author
Sabina Kowalczyk
Studenckie Koło Naukowe, Klinika Okulistyki, Wydział Nauk Medycznych ŚUM, ul. Ceglana 35, 40-514 Katowice
Studenckie Koło Naukowe, Klinika Okulistyki, Wydział Nauk Medycznych ŚUM, ul. Ceglana 35, 40-514 Katowice
Ann. Acad. Med. Siles. 2026;80:124-132
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
The first references to vitreomacular traction (VMT) date back to 1953, when Samuel Rodman Irvine identified it as a potential cause of cystoid macular edema. Recently, the literature increasingly reports associations between VMT and other common ocular conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This review article explores the epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, diagnostics, and treatment options for VMT. The mechanism of VMT development in the course of diabetic retinopathy differs slightly depending on whether it is proliferative or non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Exudative AMD is characterized by the development of macular neovascularization, which can lead to fluid leakage or hemorrhage in the macula. Recent studies also suggest a potential link between AMD and VMT. VMT and other vitreoretinal interface disorders represent a group of conditions with diverse underlying mechanisms and associated complications. Choosing an effective treatment strategy requires careful consideration of multiple clinical factors. To do this successfully, the physicians managing these cases must have a solid knowledge about this condition. This article provides an overview of the key concepts and current knowledge of VMT.
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