Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: To analyze the microvascular consequences of experimental branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). Methods: Following laser–induced BRVO in pigmented rats, funduscopy, fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography were monitored with a confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope. Results: Immediately following BRVO, blood–retinal barrier rupture, perivenular opacification, ICG parietal staining and collateral circulation formation were observed. The blood–retinal barrier rupture and the collateral circulation involved mainly the venules of the outer microvessel layer as demonstrated by serial optical sectioning. BRB rupture appeared as a combination of diffuse leakage through the deep venule wall and pericapillary fluid collections. Conclusions: The early funduscopic and angiographic alterations following BRVO involve mainly the venules of the outer microvessel layer. These alteration may initiate chronic microvascular remodeling and blood–retina barrier rupture.
Keywords: vascular occlusion/vascular occlusive disease • imaging methods (CT, FA, ICG, MRI, OCT, RTA, SLO, ultrasound)