Relationship between atrial fibrillation and retinal artery occlusion: what we know now and how we can use it in clinical practice?

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common heart rhythm disorder that constitutes the cause of ischemic stroke. Retinal artery occlusion (RAO), believed to be the equivalent of ischaemic stroke, is one of the causes of sudden vision loss that is related to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. The relationship between AF and ischaemic stroke is well known. Gaining knowledge about the relationship between AF and RAO seems essential. Is the presence of AF associated with the risk of RAO? What impact does RAO have on the prognosis of patients with AF? Should patients with RAO be examined for AF? What treatment should be introduced in RAO patients recently diagnosed with AF? Knowing the answers to these questions appears to be essential in daily clinical practice. A literature review on the relationship between RAO and AF is presented.