central retinal vein occlusion

Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO): A Common Cause of Vision Loss

Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) is a condition in which the main vein that drains blood from the retina closes off partially or completely. This can cause blurred vision and other problems with the eye.

• Causes: The exact cause of CRVO is not known, but it is thought to be related to a blood clot or reduced blood flow in the central retinal vein.
• Symptoms: Symptoms include blurry vision or vision loss in one eye. In some cases, people may not experience any symptoms at all.
• Types: There are two types of CRVO: non-ischemic and ischemic. Non-ischemic CRVO is characterized by mild to moderate swelling of the retina, while ischemic CRVO is more severe and can cause significant vision loss.

What Happens When the Central Retinal Vein is Blocked?

When the central retinal vein is blocked, blood and fluid spill out into the retina. This can cause the macula to swell, affecting your central vision. Without blood circulation, nerve cells in the retina can die, leading to permanent vision loss.

• Prevalence: CRVO affects between 1 and 4 people per 1,000.
• Complications: If left untreated, CRVO can lead to severe damage to the retina, including retinal hemorrhages, cotton wool spots, and even blindness.

References

[2] Central retinal vein occlusion is a condition in which the main vein that drains blood from the retina closes off partially or completely. [3] This can cause blurred vision and other problems with the eye. [4] Symptoms include blurry vision or vision loss in one eye. [5] When the central retinal vein is blocked, blood and fluid spill out into the retina. [6] This can cause the macula to swell, affecting your central vision. [7] Without blood circulation, nerve cells in the retina can die, leading to permanent vision loss.

Diagnostic Tests for Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO)

Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) can be diagnosed through a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history, and various diagnostic tests. Here are some of the common diagnostic tests used to diagnose CRVO:

• Fluorescein Angiography: This is considered the most useful test for evaluating CRVO. It involves injecting a fluorescent dye into a vein in the arm, which is then tracked as it flows through the retina. This test helps to visualize the retinal vessels and detect any blockages or abnormalities.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): OCT is a non-invasive imaging test that uses low-coherence interferometry to capture high-resolution images of the retina. It can help to determine the degree of macular edema and its response to treatment.
• Retinal Exam: A thorough retinal exam by an eye care specialist can help to diagnose CRVO. The exam may involve dilating the pupil to allow for a more detailed examination of the retina.
• Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Test: IOP testing is used to measure the pressure inside the eye, which can be elevated in some cases of CRVO.
• Pupil Reflex Response: This test assesses the response of the pupils to light and can help to diagnose CRVO.

References:

• [4] Fluorescein angiography is the most useful test for the evaluation of retinal capillary nonperfusion, posterior segment neovascularization, and macular edema.
• [8] Optical coherence tomography is used to determine the degree of macular edema and its response to treatment.
• [9] Exams and Tests · Exam of the retina after dilating the pupil · Fluorescein angiography · Intraocular pressure · Pupil reflex response · Refraction ...

Treatment Options for Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO)

Central retinal vein occlusion, also known as CRVO, is a condition in which the main vein that drains blood from the retina closes off partially or completely. This can cause blurred vision and other problems with the eye.

• Anti-VEGF Therapy: The first line treatment for macular edema due to CRVO is anti-VEGF therapy with intravitreal bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept, [6][7]. These medications are injected into the eye and have been shown to reduce macula edema and improve vision.
• Laser Treatment: The Central Vein Occlusion Study (CVOS) recommends careful observation of ischemic CRVO, with application of laser treatment immediately after iris, angle, or retinal neovascularization develops [5]. Laser treatment can help prevent further complications and promote healing.
• Ozurdex: Ozurdex is a medication that has been extensively studied in research clinical trials for the treatment of vein occlusion patients. It has been shown to be effective in reducing macula edema and improving vision [8].
• Other Treatment Options: Other treatment options proven to be effective in reducing macula edema and improving vision include medicines injected into the eye such as VEGF inhibitors [7].

Important Considerations

It's essential to note that the most effective treatment for CRVO will depend on individual factors, including the severity of the condition and any underlying health issues. A comprehensive evaluation by an eye care professional is necessary to determine the best course of treatment.

References: [5] Central Vein Occlusion Study (CVOS) recommendations [6] Anti-VEGF therapy for macular edema due to CRVO [7] Treatment options for macula edema and vision improvement [8] Ozurdex in vein occlusion patients