[The role of the vitreous body in diseases of neighboring structures].

BACKGROUND: The vitreoretinal interface is not merely the space between the vitreous body and the retina but it is also a site for highly complex pathologies with the vitreous body exerting an influence on all the neighbouring structures.

METHODS: A literature search was performed in Pubmed and current book articles

RESULTS: This review article highlights the role of the vitreous body in vitreomacular adhesion and traction, in the development of macular holes and epiretinal membranes as well as its role in age-related macular degeneration. In the retinal periphery the vitreous structures play a pivotal role in retinal tears and detachment as well as in diabetic and other proliferative vitreoretinopathies. The role of the vitreous bodyin the emergence of various forms of cataract is often underestimated.

DISCUSSION: Vitreo-etinal surgeons should thoroughly understand the pathophysiological relationship between the vitreous body and the neighboring structures, especially in the era of medical vitreolysis.