Inflammation in Retinal Vein Occlusion

Abstract

Retinal vein occlusion is a common, vision-threatening vascular disorder. The role of inflammation in the pathogenesis and clinical consequences of retinal vein occlusion is a topic of growing interest. It has long been recognized that systemic inflammatory disorders, such as autoimmune disease, are a significant risk factor for this condition. A number of more recent laboratory and clinical studies have begun to elucidate the role inflammation may play in the molecular pathways responsible for the vision-impairing consequences of retinal vein occlusion, such as macular edema. This improved understanding of the role of inflammation in retinal vein occlusion has allowed the development of new treatments for the disorder, with additional therapeutic targets and strategies to be identified as our understanding of the topic increases.

Long-Term Anatomical and Functional Outcomes in Patients with Ischemic Central Retinal Vein Occlusion Treated with Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Agents

“…The exact pathogenesis is poorly understood, but various cardiovascular, thrombophilic, systemic, and ocular conditions predispose to CRVO [3] , while local inflammation has been also implicated in the pathophysiology of CRVO [4] . Additionally, several studies have identified a direct correlation between vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels and the severity of macular edema, as well as the development of retinal ischemia in CRVO, which are considered as the main causes of visual impairment in patients with CRVO [5][6][7] .…”

Comparison of the Release Profile and Pharmacokinetics of Intact and Fragmented Dexamethasone Intravitreal Implants in Rabbit Eyes

“…1,2 It is characterized by variable degrees of ischemia and edema, which frequently lead to vision loss and blindness if inadequately treated. [1][2][3] Uveitis is also a leading cause of visual impairment, 3 accounting for 30,000 new cases of legal blindness annually in the Western world. 4 Posterior uveitis affects the retina, choroid, and occasionally the optic nerve and comprises 10%-40% of all uveitis cases.…”

Risk of Retinal Vein Occlusion With Central Serous Chorioretinopathy

“…18 Recently, inflammatory processes have been implicated in vitreoretinal diseases, including RVO. 19,20 Several studies demonstrated elevated proinflammatory factors in the vitreous fluid of RVO patients and hypothesized that the inflammatory process is important in the development of RVO. 19,20 Inflammation within the ocular tissue has been implicated to play an important role in the development and pathogenesis of RVO.…”