What term refers to when the retina is separated from its underlying tissue?

The term that refers to the separation of the retina from its underlying tissue is retinal detachment. This condition can be serious and may lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina—a thin layer of light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye—pulls away from its normal position. This can happen due to several reasons, such as trauma, changes in the vitreous gel of the eye, or underlying conditions like high myopia.

Recognizing retinal detachment is crucial because symptoms often include the sudden appearance of floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow over the visual field, indicating that immediate medical attention is necessary. Understanding this condition is important in optometry and ophthalmology, as timely intervention can help preserve vision.

The other terms listed do not relate to this condition. A stye refers to an infection in the glands of the eyelid, strabismus is a misalignment of the eyes (often referred to as "crossed eyes"), and monocular vision pertains to the vision of one eye, which does not affect the retina's structural integrity.