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Hyperhomocysteinemia: a risk factor for central retinal vein occlusion
1Retina Service, University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|June 14, 2000
Summary
Elevated homocysteine levels, or hyperhomocysteinemia, are a significant risk factor for central retinal vein occlusion. This condition may also indicate a poorer prognosis for patients diagnosed with this eye disease.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Medicine
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Elevated plasma homocysteine is a known risk factor for vascular diseases.
- Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) is a serious vascular condition affecting the eye.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether hyperhomocysteinemia is a risk factor for central retinal vein occlusion.
- To determine the association between plasma homocysteine levels and CRVO.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 74 patients with documented CRVO.
- Control subjects were individuals assessed for nonretinal vascular diseases.
- Hyperhomocysteinemia was defined as total plasma homocysteine above the 95th percentile in controls.
Main Results:
- Patients with CRVO had higher mean plasma homocysteine levels (11.58 +/- 4.67 micromol/l) compared to controls (9.49 +/- 2.65 micromol/l).
- 21.6% of CRVO patients exhibited hyperhomocysteinemia (odds ratio, 6.53; P =.003).
- Hyperhomocysteinemia was more prevalent in cases of bilateral disease (55%) and ischemic occlusions (30%).
Conclusions:
- Hyperhomocysteinemia is identified as a risk factor for central retinal vein occlusion.
- The presence of hyperhomocysteinemia may suggest a poor prognosis in CRVO patients.
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