Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a condition of the eye where a blockage occurs in a retinal blood vessel that normally drains the blood back into the circulation.
When the vein is blocked, it cannot drain blood from the retina and can lead to bleeding and/or accumulation of excess fluid (macular edema). There are two types of RVO conditions: central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) where the blockage is the main retinal vein; and branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) where there is blockage of a smaller branched vein.
Swelling of the retinal tissue and bleeding can lead to vision loss and permanent vision loss. Despite the availability of anti-VEGF drugs to treat RVO, many patients have only partial response and require frequent injections. An unmet need exists for newer treatments that can improve efficacy and durability of response.
Retinal Vein Occlusion
Cross-section of a retina with RVO showing retinal thickening (gray area) due to swelling and multiple retinal bleeding (hemorrhages).
Fundoscopic image shows widespread retinal hemorrhages.
The OCT image demonstrates an abnormally thickened and distorted macula with fluid accumulation.