Central Retinal Artery Occlusion

Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is acute painless monocular vision loss due to embolism/thrombosis of the central retinal artery, an ocular stroke emergency. Clinical: sudden painless severe vision loss, afferent pupillary defect, pale retina with cherry-red spot at fovea. Treatment: immediate lowering of IOP (ocular massage, anterior-chamber paracentesis, acetazolamide), breathing into a paper bag to dilate arterioles; evaluate embolic source (carotid/heart) and stroke workup; some centers offer thrombolysis.

Common Symptoms

Sudden painless monocular vision loss; afferent pupillary defect; pale retina/cherry-red spot

Causes and Pathogenesis

Embolism/thrombosis blocks the central retinal artery, causing inner retinal ischemia.

Treatment

Immediate IOP lowering (massage/paracentesis/acetazolamide); paper-bag rebreathing; embolic/stroke workup; thrombolysis in selected centers

Preventive Measures

Control vascular risk; carotid/cardiac evaluation; stroke workup.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Ophthalmology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.