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Increased red blood cell aggregation in retinal vein occlusion
A Chabanel1, A Glacet-Bernard, F Lelong
1Laboratoire Central d'Hématologie, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu, Paris, France.
British Journal of Haematology
|May 1, 1990
Summary
Increased red blood cell (RBC) aggregation is linked to retinal vein occlusion (RVO). This study found significantly higher RBC aggregation in RVO patients, suggesting it may predispose individuals to this condition.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Hematology
- Cardiovascular Science
Background:
- Red blood cell (RBC) aggregation influences blood viscosity, particularly at low shear rates.
- Retinal venous circulation's low flow and high resistance make it susceptible to increased blood viscosity.
- Haemorheological factors are critical for retinal venous circulation's function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential link between elevated RBC aggregation and the development of retinal vein occlusion (RVO).
- To determine if increased RBC aggregation predisposes individuals to RVO onset and progression.
Main Methods:
- RBC aggregation and disaggregation were measured using a SEFAM erythroaggregameter in 64 RVO patients and 64 controls.
- Patient groups were matched for age, sex, smoking habits, and comorbidities.
- Subgroup analyses examined RVO site, form, duration, and severity.
Main Results:
- 52% of RVO patients exhibited increased RBC aggregation.
- RVO patients showed a statistically significant 14% higher mean RBC aggregation compared to controls (P < 0.001).
- No significant differences in aggregation parameters were found across RVO subgroups.
Conclusions:
- Elevated RBC aggregation is a significant finding in patients with RVO.
- Increased RBC aggregability and aggregate shear resistance may contribute to circulatory stasis, predisposing to RVO.
- Haemorheological factors, specifically RBC aggregation, are implicated in the pathophysiology of RVO.