Retinal Vein Occlusion¹

Retinal Vein Occlusion is when a vein in the retina becomes blocked. This can be caused by a blood clot, or it can happen when a larger blood vessel presses down on the vein.

There are two types of retinal vein occlusion:

• CRVO (central retinal vein occlusion). When the eye’s main vein is blocked.
• BRVO (branch retinal vein occlusion). When small blood vessels attached to the eye’s main vein are blocked.

Risk Factors

Cardiovascular disease (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes), advanced age, glaucoma, and obesety increase the risk of developing retinal vein occlusion (RVO).
 

Symptoms of RVO

The symptoms of the disease can vary depending on which part of the retina is affected, but common symptoms include reduced visual acuity, visual field loss, and blurred and distorted vision.
 

Diagnosis of RVO

The diagnosis is made through an eye examination where the ophthalmologist assesses the retina using photographs. An examination with the help of a contrast agent may also be performed.
 

Treatment of RVO

The treatment aims to improve blood flow to the blocked vein. There are several treatment options, including laser treatment, injection of medications, and surgery. The appropriate treatment depends on the extent of the disease and the location of the blocked vein in the eye.

1. Kierstan Boyd: What Is a Retinal Vein Occlusion? American Academy of Ophthalmology, Nov 2024

SE-OPHTHRV-240001 v 1.0 November 2024