The ocular ischemic syndrome.

A series of 8 patients (12 eyes) with ocular ischemic syndrome (ocular signs and symptoms due to severe carotid obstructive disease) is presented. Anterior segment signs include rubeosis iridis, neovascular glaucoma and uveitis. Posterior segment manifestations include mid-peripheral intraretinal haemorrhages, narrowed arteries, dilated veins and cotton-wool spots. Fluorescein angiography demonstrates delayed choroidal filling and a prolonged arteriovenous transit time. Pathophysiology, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, treatment and prognosis are briefly discussed.