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The ocular ischemic syndrome. II. Mortality and systemic morbidity
A Sivalingam1, G C Brown, L E Magargal
1Retina Vascular Unit, Wills Eye Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA.
International Ophthalmology
|May 1, 1989
Summary
Patients with ocular ischemic syndrome, caused by carotid artery obstruction, face a significantly higher mortality rate. Cardiac disease and stroke are the leading causes of death in these individuals.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Medicine
- Cardiology
Background:
- Ocular ischemic syndrome is a condition resulting from severe carotid artery obstruction.
- This syndrome presents with specific ocular symptoms and signs.
- Carotid artery disease significantly impacts systemic health and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the long-term mortality associated with ocular ischemic syndrome.
- To identify the primary causes of death in patients with this condition.
- To compare the mortality of patients with ocular ischemic syndrome to a matched control group.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 52 consecutive patients with ocular ischemic syndrome was studied.
- Follow-up data was collected to assess mortality.
- An age and sex-matched control group from the Framingham study was used for comparison.
Main Results:
- The five-year mortality rate for patients with ocular ischemic syndrome was 40%.
- The control group had a five-year mortality rate of 11%.
- Cardiac disease (63%) and stroke (19%) were the leading causes of death. Systemic arterial hypertension (73%), diabetes mellitus (56%), and peripheral vascular disease (19%) were common comorbidities.
Conclusions:
- Ocular ischemic syndrome is associated with a substantially increased risk of premature death.
- Aggressive management of cardiovascular risk factors is crucial in patients with carotid artery disease.
- Early recognition and treatment may improve outcomes for patients with ocular ischemic syndrome.