Aim-To determine whether a newly identified thrombophilia factor, activated
factor VII (FVIIa), is associated with retinal vein occlusion (RVO).
Methods-54 consecutive cases with RVO seen between March and September 1999
were included in the study. 22 cases had central retinal vein occlusion (C
RVO) and 32 had branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). Ophthalmoscopic exami
nation with detailed medical history was followed by blood analyses for liv
er and renal functions, cholesterol, triglycerides, complete blood count, a
nd coagulation factors including protein C activity, free protein S, antith
rombin III, fibrinogen, and factor VIIa (FVIIa). Data were compared with th
ose of the control group, composed of 19 cases under ophthalmological follo
w up for refractive errors, presbyopia, or senile cataract.
Results-Hypertension was highly prevalent in cases with BRVO. Complete bloo
d count, and liver and kidney function tests were within normal limits in t
he study group. Two cases had low protein C activity, and one had low free
protein S. FVIIa levels were significantly higher in the RVO group than in
the control group (p=0.0004). There was no significant difference in FVIIa
levels between the CRVO and BRVO groups (p=0.51).
Conclusion-No haematological parameter except FVIIa differed significantly
from that of the control group. Elevation of FVIIa level may play a part in
the pathophysiology of both CRVO and BRVO.