Central Retinal Vein Occlusion-like Appearance: A Precursor Stage in Evolution of Frosted Branch Angiitis.

PURPOSE: To report a young man with a central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO)-like appearance which later evolved to frosted branch angiitis (FBA).

CASE REPORT: As 28-year-old Indian man presented with optic disc swelling, hyperemia, peripapillary hemorrhages, and dilated tortuous veins in the left eye, 6 months after being diagnosed with idiopathic FBA in the right eye. Within 3 days of presentation, the left eye developed FBA, which was promptly and successfully treated with oral steroids.

CONCLUSION: A CRVO-like picture may be the first stage of FBA. Young patients with CRVO and intraocular inflammation should be followed closely for early detection of FBA. Early initiation of oral steroids may preserve visual acuity in such cases.