Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion
Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO)
is a common retinal vascular disease; it is caused by the occlusion of one of
the branches of the central retinal vein. The branch retinal vein is
ususally mechanically occluded by a "hardened" (arteriosclerotic)
retinal artery where the artery crosses the vein. Risk factors for
arteriosclerosis which can lead to BRVO include hypertension, diabetes mellitus,
hyperlipidemia, and a history of cigaette smoking or tobacco exposure.
Patients with BRVO usually complain of sudden
onset of blurred vision and a visual defect.
The eye examination findings of acute BRVO
include retinal hemorrhages, retinal swelling/edema, and often poor circulation
(retinal whitening) in a sector of retina drained by the affected vein.The
obstructed vein is dilated and tortuous.
