APA Dictionary of Psychology

the separation of the inner layer of the retina (the neural retina) from the outer pigment epithelium layer. The onset of symptoms, depending on the size and site of the detachment, may include flashes of light followed by a clouding of vision, the appearance of spots or visual artifacts before the eye (known as floaters), or a sudden complete loss of vision. Detached retina is usually treated by surgery. Also called retinal detachment. See also diabetic retinopathy.