Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a medical condition characterized by the blockage or obstruction of one or more of the veins that carry blood away from the retina, the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye. It is commonly caused by the formation of a blood clot or the narrowing of the vein, disrupting the normal blood flow and leading to fluid build-up, bleeding, and tissue damage in the retina.
RVO is classified into two main types: central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) and branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). CRVO occurs when the main vein that drains blood from the retina is blocked, while BRVO occurs when one of the smaller veins branching out from the main vein becomes obstructed.
Symptoms of retinal vein occlusion may include sudden painless vision loss, blurred or distorted vision, the perception of floating spots or dark areas in the visual field, and decreased visual acuity. Risk factors for RVO include advancing age, high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma, a history of blood clots or cardiovascular diseases, and certain inflammatory conditions.
Treatment options for retinal vein occlusion aim to manage the underlying cause or risk factors, alleviate symptoms, and prevent further complications. These may include lifestyle modifications, such as blood pressure and diabetes management, anti-inflammatory medications, laser therapy, intravitreal injections, or in severe cases, surgical intervention. Regular monitoring with an eye care professional is vital to ensure early detection and appropriate management of retinal vein occlusion.
