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Concomitants of asymptomatic retinal cholesterol emboli
A Bruno1, P W Russell, W L Jones
1Neurology Service, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Albuquerque, N.M.
Stroke
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Asymptomatic retinal cholesterol emboli are linked to hypertension and smoking. These findings suggest systemic atherosclerosis, not just carotid artery issues.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Asymptomatic retinal cholesterol emboli are observed during eye exams.
- These emboli are linked to reduced survival, but their full clinical significance is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify vascular risk factors associated with asymptomatic retinal cholesterol emboli.
Main Methods:
- A study of 70 men with asymptomatic retinal cholesterol emboli and 21 control subjects without retinal emboli.
- Vascular risk factors, ischemic heart disease, and extracranial carotid artery disease were assessed.
Main Results:
- Hypertension, smoking, and heterogeneous/echolucent carotid plaques were more prevalent in patients with emboli.
- Higher rates of significant carotid artery stenosis and ischemic heart disease were observed but not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- Hypertension and cigarette smoking appear to contribute to the development of asymptomatic retinal cholesterol emboli.
- Retinal cholesterol emboli may signify systemic atherosclerosis rather than localized carotid artery stenosis.