Retinal vein occlusion, or RVO, happens when a vein in the retina becomes blocked. Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) affects a smaller branch vein and usually involves only part of the retina. Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) affects the main retinal vein, so it can involve a larger area of the retina and may have a greater effect on vision.
What retinal vein occlusion (RVO) means
Retinal vein occlusion, or RVO, happens when a vein in the retina becomes blocked. That blockage can lead to bleeding, swelling, and reduced blood flow in the retina.
What is branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO)?
Branch retinal vein occlusion, or BRVO, affects a smaller branch vein. It usually involves only part of the retina rather than the whole central retinal drainage system.
What is central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO)?
Central retinal vein occlusion, or CRVO, affects the main retinal vein. Because the blocked vessel is more central, CRVO can involve a larger area of the retina and may have a greater effect on vision.
BRVO vs CRVO: why the distinction matters
BRVO and CRVO are related conditions, but the amount of retinal involvement, the complications, and the likely visual impact can differ.
| Branch RVO (BRVO) | Central RVO (CRVO) | |
|---|---|---|
| Vein affected | A smaller branch vein | The main retinal vein |
| Area of retina involved | Usually only part of the retina | Can involve a larger area of the retina |
| Effect on vision | Involves part of the retina rather than the whole central drainage system | May have a greater effect on vision and can be associated with more severe vision effects |
Read more: What causes retinal vein occlusion?
Key takeaway
BRVO affects a branch vein, while CRVO affects the main retinal vein. CRVO often involves a larger area of retina and can be associated with more severe vision effects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between BRVO and CRVO?
BRVO affects a smaller branch vein and usually involves only part of the retina, while CRVO affects the main retinal vein and can involve a larger area of the retina with a greater effect on vision.
Is CRVO more serious than BRVO?
CRVO affects the main retinal vein and can involve a larger area of the retina, so it may have a greater effect on vision and can be associated with more severe vision effects.
What is retinal vein occlusion?
Retinal vein occlusion happens when a vein in the retina becomes blocked, which can lead to bleeding, swelling, and reduced blood flow in the retina.
Why does the type of RVO matter?
BRVO and CRVO are related, but the amount of retinal involvement, the complications, and the likely visual impact can differ.
Retina care and referrals in Hamilton
Retina Consultants of Hamilton provides educational information on retinal conditions, and Precision Retina Care accepts patient referrals from optometrists and referring physicians in the Hamilton area. Learn more about how RVO is managed or visit our referral information page.
Related reading:
General educational information only. This page is not a substitute for an eye examination or individualized medical advice. Specific referral, testing, and treatment decisions depend on clinical assessment.
Reviewed by Dr. Varun Chaudhary, vitreoretinal specialist, Retina Consultants of Hamilton.