The role of abnormalities in the anticoagulant and fibrinolytic systems in retinal vascular occlusions.

The hemostatic mechanisms involve both an anticoagulant system to check the coagulation cascade and a fibrinolytic system to remove formed fibrin clots. Abnormalities of the hemostatic system or acquired abnormal hematological factors can produce a thrombophilic state which accounts for 15-28% of unexplained systemic vascular thrombosis in young patients. Similar abnormalities have recently been identified in some patients with retinal vascular occlusions. Screening of selected patients with retinal vascular occlusions may reveal additional ophthalmological patients with specific thrombotic syndromes.