Central Retinal Vein Occlusion
(CRVO)

A blockage causing tiny darks spots, or floaters

Condition

Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) blocks the main vein in the retina. The blockage causes the walls of the vein to leak blood and excess fluid into the retina. Blood clumps are seen as tiny dark spots, or floaters, causing blurry vision.

Risk factors

CRVO often occurs with glaucoma, diabetes, age-related vascular disease, high blood pressure, and blood disorders.

Symptoms

CRVO can be painful because the blocked vein causes pressure in the eye.

Treatment

There is no identified cure for CRVO; however, laser surgery may be effective in preventing further bleeding, or for treating glaucoma.

Fundus photo of normal eye

Retina with central retinal vein occlusion noted by numerous dark spots of blood leaking from veins