Do Patients With Retinal Artery Occlusion Need Urgent Neurologic Evaluation?

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a framework for logical, immediate action to manage patients with retinal artery occlusion.

Design: Literature review and perspective.

Methods: Review of the literature and the author's experience.

Results: Since embolism is the most common factor causing retinal artery occlusion, to manage these patients, immediate evaluation and management of the source of embolism is critical to prevent further episodes.

Conclusions: The logical, immediate action to manage patients with retinal artery occlusion is evaluation of the carotid artery and heart for embolism, fasting lipid levels and a complete blood count, rather than neurological evaluation, unless, of course, there are neurological symptoms.