Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO)

Branch retinal vein occlusion is a blockage of one of the smaller veins draining the retina, causing blurred or distorted vision in part of the visual field.

Common symptoms

Blurred or missing vision in one part of one eye, distortion of straight lines, and sometimes floaters if there is associated bleeding.

Description

BRVO happens when a smaller branch of the retinal veins becomes blocked, usually where a thickened artery presses on it. Blood and fluid leak into the retina around the blockage, causing swelling and affecting the part of the visual field supplied by that vein.

It is most common in people over 50 and in those with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or glaucoma. Unlike a central vein occlusion, only a portion of the retina is affected, so some people notice only a small patch of blurred or distorted vision.

Treatment aims to reduce swelling at the macula and prevent complications. This may involve eye injections, laser treatment, and managing underlying health conditions. Regular monitoring is important because new blood vessels and further bleeding can develop over time.