This 80YOF was initially seen with asymptomatic retinoschisis in her left eye. When examined approximately a year and a half later, she remained asymptomatic, but the schisis cavity had enlarged in all dimensions.
Observation was recommended. This patient is at virtually no risk of a combined schisis-rhegmatogenous detachment due to the absence of breaks in the inner and outer layers.
Learning Points:
Retinochisis cavities can enlarge. In these cases, prophylactic treatment, including thermal laser, does not prevent the schisis from enlarging. Schisis very rarely progresses into the fovea (Byer Ophthalmology 1986;93:1127-1137) and even then is compatible with preserved central vision as long as the outer layer remains attached (Watzke et al 2013;33:606-612).
