Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: Current Management Options

Abstract

 Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), a common retinal vascular disorder, remains an important cause of visual loss. Patients generally present with painless visual loss in the affected eye. The clinical appearance typically demonstrates 4 quadrants of intraretinal hemorrhages with dilated and tortuous retinal veins. Macular edema, optic disc edema, and cotton-wool spots may be present to a variable degree. CRVO is broadly divided into 2 clinical subtypes, based on the degree of ischemia: Nonischemic CRVO is typically associated with relatively better vision and a better prognosis for spontaneous visual improvement; ischemic CRVO is typically associated with more profound visual loss on presentation, a relative afferent pupillary defect, and a relatively higher risk for neovascular glaucoma. Nonischemic CRVO may progress to ischemic CRVO, typically within the first 3-9 months.