The Therapeutic Predicament of Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion in uncontrolled Hypertension in Pakistan

Abstract

Around the globe, hypertension is a silent pandemic. After diabetic retinopathies, hypertensive retinal vascular diseases are one of the most prevalent. In Pakistan, diagnostic investigations due to their cost are not done on regular screening basis as the financial burden of management is a point at issue. Thus, such conditions can often go undetected or therapeutically compromised. Here is a case of unilateral ischemic branch retinal vein occlusion in a 48-year-old male with a history of uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes. Additional laboratory investigations were carried out including complete lipid profile, serum urea and creatinine levels. Fundus fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography was done. The patient was managed on anti-VEGF injections and Argon Laser. Follow-up along with a multi-disciplinary management approach is essential for the best possible prognosis. Keywords: hypertension, central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO)