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Hyperhomocysteinemia: a risk factor for retinal vein occlusion
Cem Yildirim1, Volkan Yaylali, Sinan Tatlipinar
1Department of Ophthalmology, Pamukkale University School of Medicine, Denizli, Turkey. yildirimc@hotmail.com
Summary
Elevated plasma homocysteine levels are associated with retinal vein occlusion (RVO). This study found higher homocysteine in RVO patients, suggesting hyperhomocysteinemia may be a risk factor for RVO.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Medicine
- Clinical Biochemistry
Background:
- Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a significant cause of vision loss.
- Hyperhomocysteinemia, elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood, is a potential risk factor for vascular diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate plasma homocysteine levels in patients with RVO.
- To determine if hyperhomocysteinemia is a risk factor for RVO.
Main Methods:
- A prospective case-control study included 33 RVO patients and 25 controls.
- Plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) was measured using high-performance liquid chromatography.
- Folate, vitamin B12, and creatinine levels were also assessed.
Main Results:
- RVO patients had significantly higher plasma tHcy levels (median 11.7 µmol/l) compared to controls (median 10.3 µmol/l).
- 27.3% of RVO patients exhibited elevated tHcy, while no controls did.
- Plasma folate, vitamin B12, and creatinine levels did not differ between groups.
Conclusions:
- The study suggests an association between hyperhomocysteinemia and RVO.
- Further large-scale studies are required to confirm the exact role of hyperhomocysteinemia in RVO pathogenesis.