[Whole course management is the key to retinal vein occlusion]

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is the consequence of obstruction of retinal vein system caused by a variety of etiologies. Its ocular complications include macular edema, retinal ischemia and neovascular glaucoma. Although many drugs for management of RVO are available, some doctors do not fully understand the exact purpose of each treatment. This article starts from the etiology evaluation of RVO, emphasizing that, besides systemic etiology and risk factor management, the treatment of RVO should focus on the three major complications at the same time, rather than just dealing with macular edema. Meanwhile, a regular follow-up for observing the changes of the degree of retinal ischemia is important for whole course management. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy, the first-line treatment option of RVO, can not only reduce macular edema, but also prevent the complications caused by retinal ischemia and create opportunities for further laser photocoagulation. Laser photocoagulation has an irreplaceable value in the comprehensive treatment of ischemic RVO. Glucocorticoid intraocular implants should not be used alone in the treatment of macular edema secondary to RVO. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2020, 56:246-249).