Risk Factors in Central Retinal Vein Occlusion and Activated Protein C Resistance

Abstract

Introduction Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) tends to be a disease of older individuals, with some known major risk factors, and activated protein C resistance seems to be one of the causes in younger patients. In this study, we reviewed risk factors including activated protein C resistance in a series of patients with CRVO. Methods Twenty-four patients with a diagnosis of CRVO presenting either acutely or for a follow-up visit during the study period, were enrolled. Ages ranged between 31 and 83 years (mean 59.7). The risk factors, presence of ischemia, the results of biochemical serological and hematological tests, especially activated protein C resistance (APC-R), were analysed. Results In 17 patients (71%) one or more of the following risk factors existed: hypertension, diabetes, oral contraceptive usage, family history of thrombosis, and previous operation. In 40% of the eyes, there were ischemic changes. Serum triglycerides were high in 4 of 21 patients (19%) and cholesterol and urea were high in 10 of 21 patients (19%). APC-R was found in 6 out of 24 patients (25%). Conclusions Besides known predisposing factors like hypertension, diabetes, glaucoma and hyperlipidemia, APC-R seems to be a risk factor for CRVO at all ages.