Branch retinal vein occlusion
 
There is tortuosity of the retinal vein (superotemporal vein is the most commonly involved) with dot 
and blot and flamed haemorrhages along the nerve fibre layer. The macula may show macula oedema. 
Look for any peripheral neovascularization or fibrosis in the peripheral retina. (Note: examine the nasal 
side of the retina to be certain that the occlusion is branch and not hemi-retinal vein occlusion).

Examine the eye for:

  • hypertensive retinopathy such as artero-venous nipping
  • sectorial pan-photocoagulation for peripheral neovascularization
  • macular laser scars from focal photocoagulation for macular oedema

Questions:

1. What are the causes of visual loss in branch retinal vein occlusion?

2. What is the recommendation for macular oedema according to the Brach Retinal Vein Occlusion Study?

3. What is the benefit of prophylactic laser photocoagulation for patient with ischaemic branch retinal vein occlusion?


 

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