Retinal vein occlusion

Retinal Vein Occlusion

File:Retinal Vein Occlusion.jpg

Retinal Vein Occlusion as seen in fundus photography

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a pathological condition of the eye where blockage occurs in the retinal veins that carry blood away from the retina. This blockage can lead to severe and sudden vision loss.

Causes

The primary cause of RVO is a thrombus or blood clot that forms in the retinal vein. Other contributing factors may include hypertension, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and certain blood disorders.

Symptoms

Symptoms of RVO can include sudden, painless vision loss or distortion, floaters, and a noticeable loss of side (peripheral) vision.

Diagnosis

Ophthalmologists typically diagnose RVO through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, and optical coherence tomography.

Treatment

Treatment options for RVO can include laser therapy, intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF drugs, and corticosteroids. In some cases, vitrectomy may be necessary.

See also

• Central retinal vein occlusion
• Branch retinal vein occlusion
• Retinal artery occlusion
• Retinal diseases

External links

• MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Retinal vein occlusion
• National Eye Institute: Eye Diagram