Simultaneous bilateral central retinal vein occlusion as the initial presentation of acute myeloid leukemia

Abstract

Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) is a common cause of visual impairment at any age, but only 10% to 15% of patients are younger than 40 years. Ocular involvement is not uncommon in patients with leukemia; however, bilateral CRVO as a complication of acute myeloid leukemia has rarely been reported. Here, we report a patient who had simultaneous bilateral CRVO as the initial presentation of acute myeloid leukemia. Thorough examination should be carefully conducted because ocular manifestations may be the initial presentation of life-threatening illness. A prompt search for the underlying systemic illness should be performed in all young patients presenting with CRVO.