ABO Ophthalmology Complete Practice Exam 2025

The most common type of retinal vascular occlusion is indeed the central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). This condition is characterized by blockage of the main vein responsible for draining blood from the retina, leading to a range of complications including retinal hemorrhages, exudates, and potential vision loss. The prevalence of CRVO is notable, particularly in older populations, and it is often associated with systemic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and other vascular diseases.

In contrast, other types of retinal vascular occlusions, while clinically significant, occur less frequently. For example, branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) typically affects smaller branches of the central retinal vein and, although common, occurs with less frequency than CRVO. Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) and branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO) are less common overall and are often associated with more acute and severe visual impairment, but their incidence is significantly lower compared to CRVO.

Understanding retinal vascular occlusions helps in diagnosing and managing these conditions effectively, highlighting the importance of addressing systemic risk factors to prevent such occurrences.