Proliferative membranes of the posterior segment of the eye correspond to the formation of scar tissue in the periretinal area which arise in various pathological conditions. These membranes result from the migration of retinal and choroidal cells beyond their anatomic focus inducing the production of mutilating fibrous tissue. They are a major cause of blindness in children and adults. The development of surgical procedures reaching the posterior segment, has enabled excision of these tissues. In this review, we describe the different histological features of these membranes as well as the different etiological factors inducing their development. We propose a clinicopathological classification of these membranes.