Title: Differentiating Central Retinal Artery vs. Vein Occlusion Fundoscopically

Category: Neurology

Keywords: fundoscopic examination, central retinal vein occlusion, central retinal artery occlusion (PubMed Search)

Posted: 10/19/2011 by Aisha Liferidge, MD

Differentiating Central Retinal Artery vs. Vein Occlusion Fundoscopically

While there are several historical and clinical features that differentiate central retinal artery (CRA) occlusion from central retinal vein (CRV) occlusion, the fundoscopic examination can also be used to distinguish between the two.
In CRA occlusion, the retina appears grossly swollen and pale, with a prominent fovea that would otherwise be obscured by a normal, pinkish-red background (see attached - Image 1).
In CRV occlusion, the disc is massively swollen with splotches of hemorrhage and cotton wool spots diffusely (see attached - Image 2).