Recurrent multiple-branch retinal arteriolar occlusions in a patient with protein C deficiency.
A 34-year-old woman is presented who has recurrent, multiple, retinal arteriolar occlusions associated with a deficiency in protein C, a vitamin K-dependent anticoagulant. Protein C is a naturally occurring anticoagulant and if there is a deficiency, it can lead to episodes of thrombosis; the deficiency can be acquired or congenital. This is the first documented case of retinal arteriolar occlusion associated with a congenital deficiency of this protein. The mechanism for arteriolar occlusion in this patient is discussed, and whilst the role of protein C deficiency remains presumptive, it is strongly implicated.
Nelson
M E
ME
Department of Ophthalmology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
Talbot
J F
JF
Preston
F E
FE
D000328:Adult; D001160:Arterioles; D005260:Female; D005451:Fluorescein Angiography; D005654:Fundus Oculi; D006801:Humans; D007429:Intraocular Pressure; D008881:Migraine Disorders / Q000150:complications; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications; D020151:Protein C Deficiency; D012008:Recurrence; D015356:Retinal Artery Occlusion / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000209:etiology; D014792:Visual Acuity; D014794:Visual Fields; D014859:Warfarin / Q000627:therapeutic use
D014859:Warfarin