Retinal vein occlusions are primarily a disease of the elderly, freque
ntly with permanent visual abnormalities. However, both branch and cen
tral retinal vein occlusions occur rarely in young individuals. Report
ed here are a series of retinal vein occlusions in USAF aviators. Seve
n cases were identified from records of the USAF Armstrong Laboratory
Aeromedical Consultation Service from 1976-91. Four cases of central r
etinal vein occlusions and three cases of branch occlusions are summar
ized. initial visual acuity ranged from 20/15 to 20/400. All seven avi
ators recovered 20/15 vision and returned to flying status. Hyperlipid
emia was found in four of the seven aviators, and hypertension was dia
gnosed in two aviators. Included is a discussion of current concepts i
n the natural history, associated systemic conditions, treatment optio
ns, and aeromedical implications of retinal vein occlusions.