What is a histological characteristic of basal laminar drusen?

Basal laminar drusen are characterized by their tendency to create nodular protrusions that can be observed in the retinal layers, particularly beneath the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). These drusen appear as distinctive, dome-shaped structures that protrude into the underlying tissue, which can be significant in differentiating them from other types of drusen or retinal pathologies. The presence of these protrusions is indicative of the accumulation of abnormal materials within the retina, contributing to the pathophysiology of conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This nodular formation is directly related to the structural changes that occur in the retina, and understanding this characteristic is crucial for diagnosing and managing retinal diseases associated with drusen.