[Retinal arterial obstruction and systemic disorders]

The records of 36 patients (37 eyes) with central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO, 19 patients, 19 eyes), branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO, 15 patients, 16 eyes), and cilioretinal artery occlusion (CIAO, 2 patients, 2 eyes) were reviewed with respect to underlying systemic disorders. Hypertension was the most common disorder (58%). Half of the patients had cardiovascular disorders including ischemic heart disease, valvular disease, atrial fibrillation, internal carotid artery obstruction, and atrial myxoma. Seventeen percent of the patients had diabetes mellitus, and 8% had hyperlipemia. Cerebral infarction was detected in a quarter of the patients. The incidence of the disease was one CRAO patient per 1,000 outpatients. Age distribution showed a peak in the seventh decade. Men were twice more frequently affected than women. Right eyes were more commonly involved.