Central retinal vein occlusion complicating systemic lupus erythematosus

Retinal lesions occur in 25 to 30% of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Visual loss, however, is rare. A patient who developed central retinal vein occlusion and blindness during the course of active SLE is described. The pertinent literature is reviewed with attention to possible pathophysiologic mechanisms.