Myodesopsias: the floating spots that hinder vision

These "floaters" or fuzzy spots that affect vision originate in the eye.

Myodesopsias are small spots that appear in the vitreous humor of the eye. of the eye, whose appearance is similar to that of a fly. Although they cause some difficulties in vision they are usually harmless, nevertheless, sometimes they can indicate the presence of an ocular pathology.

They are one of the most common reasons for ophthalmological consultations, although they are not usually dangerous. In this article we will see an explanation of what myodesopsias are, what are the main causes and the most common treatments.

The ocular system of human beings

Our eyes are composed of a very complex ocular system. made up of an outer layer, a middle layer and an inner layer of cells, tissues and nerve terminals responsible for carrying electrical signals to our brain.

In turn, each layer is composed of other segments that have specific functions. The inner layer, for example, is composed of three distinct chambers or sections; an anterior chamber between the cornea and the iris, a posterior chamber between the iris, the ciliary body and the crystalline lens; and a vitreous chamber, between the iris and the retina.

It is in the latter that a gelatinous, colorless mass a gelatinous and colorless mass that we call vitreous humor or vitreous body, which has a protective and protective function.It has a protective and cushioning function with which it is possible to maintain the shape of the eye and its internal pressure.

What are myodesopsias?

Myodesopsias are an ocular alteration that causes spots, dots or threads of different size and consistency. within the vitreous humor of the eye, i.e. in the gelatinous mass between the crystalline lens and the retina.

In formal terms, myodesopsias are defined as an entopic phenomenon (i.e., originating and manifesting inside the eye), caused by some defects in the vitreous gel that reflect, absorb or scatter light and thus interfere with its passage.

On the other hand and in more colloquial words, myodesopsias are known as "floating eyes". are known as "floating eyes" or "flying flies" because they have the shape of a spider web. because they have the shape of a spider web, a fluff or a small dot, usually black or gray, that moves and floats inside the eye.

For this reason, cell-type myodesopsias or filament-type myodesopsias are recognized in some investigations. Although they can impair vision and are one of the most common reasons for ophthalmological consultations, myodesopsias are not particularly harmful.

They occur more frequently during aging due to major changes in the cellular composition of the vitreous humor caused by the natural passage of time. due to important changes in the cellular composition of the vitreous humor caused by the natural passage of time.

However, if the number of myodesopsias suddenly increases and is accompanied by flashes of light, they could indicate the presence of a more serious pathology (such as retinal detachment), so in any of these cases it is important to consult a specialist immediately.

Main causes

Myodesopsias are the result of increased cellular debris in the vitreous humor, i.e. they are mainly caused by changes in the cells that produce the jelly-like substance of the vitreous humor inside the eyes.

During aging, this substance becomes more liquid, so the eye fibers and cells clump together easily, generating spots or shadows on the retina. that at first sight look like small flies.

On other occasions, the presence of myodesopsias may be an indicator that the eyes are inflamed or injured, and may be accompanied by internal bleeding, which in the worst case may cause loss of vision.

Likewise, they may appear as a consequence of a posterior vitreous detachment, or as a result of ocular trauma, eye surgery, or as one of the effects of the effects of maceration. as one of the effects of myopia..

Most frequent treatments

Usually the floaters disappear on their own after a few weeks, without having caused significant discomfort. That is, they do not require special treatment and there is no definitive medical treatment.

However, since they occur more frequently during aging, which in turn increases the likelihood of retinal detachment, it is advisable to see an ophthalmologist, it is advisable to visit an ophthalmologist whenever there is a sudden increase in the size of the spot, a peripheral shadow in the visual field or a sudden decrease in vision.

From then on, the treatments recommended by the specialist will be appropriate to the pathology detected, which may include a vitrectomy (surgery to remove the vitreous humor and replace it with a saline solution). In the meantime, what is recommended is not to chase the spots with the gaze, as this may worsen the quality of vision.

Bibliographic references:

• Myodesopsias (2018) What are myodesopsias? Retrieved March 4, 2018. Available at http://miodesopsias.com
• Castilla, M., Borja, C. & García-Arumí, J. (2016). Impact of myodesopsias on visual quality. Doctoral Thesis, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona.
• Castillo Ophthalmology Clinic. (2013). Floaters or floaters. Retrieved March 4, 2018. Available at http://www.oftalmologiacastillo.com/enfermedades/manchas-o-moscas-flotantes/
• Puel, C. (S/A). Physiological optics. The optical system of the eye and binocular vision. Universidad Complutense de Madrid [Electronic Version]. Retrieved March 4, 2018. Available at http://eprints.sim.ucm.es/14823/1/Puell_Óptica_Fisiológica.pdf