title: Management of macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion: an evidence-based update.
abstract: Retinal vein occlusions are common retinal vascular disorders with the potential for significant vision-related morbidity. Retinal vein occlusions are classified as either branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), or hemiretinal vein occlusion (HRVO) based on the specific occlusion site. The most common cause of decreased vision in patients afflicted with BRVO is the accumulation of fluid within the macula (macular edema). The Branch Vein Occlusion Study (BVOS) demonstrated the efficacy of grid laser photocoagulation in the treatment of BRVO-related macular edema. After publication of that report, grid laser became the standard of care for decreased vision due to BRVO-associated macular edema in patients similar to those enrolled in the BVOS. However, several recent major randomized, controlled clinical trials have investigated new therapeutic modalities for the treatment of decreased vision due to macular edema secondary to BRVO. This article aims to provide insight into current evidence-based approaches to management of macular edema secondary to BRVO. A companion article reviews approaches for management of macular edema secondary to CRVO.
authors.affiliation: Penn State Hershey Eye Center, 500 University Drive, HU19, Hershey, PA 17033-0850, USA.
authors.forename: Ahmad A
authors.initials: AA
authors.lastname: Aref
authors.forename: Ingrid U
authors.initials: IU
authors.lastname: Scott
mesh_terms: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D058449:Intravitreal Injections; D017075:Laser Coagulation / Q000009:adverse effects; D008269:Macular Edema / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D000069579:Ranibizumab; D012170:Retinal Vein Occlusion / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D014222:Triamcinolone Acetonide / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D014821:Vitrectomy
chemical_list: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D003907:Dexamethasone; D014222:Triamcinolone Acetonide; D000069579:Ranibizumab