Successful intra-arterial thrombolysis for central retinal artery occlusion secondary to chronic internal carotid artery occlusion: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Chronic internal carotid artery occlusion (ICAO) is an uncommon etiology of central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO). The role of intra-arterial thrombolysis (IAT) remains contentious in such cases. This report details the technical feasibility of IAT administered through angiographically identified maxillary-ophthalmic collaterals for acute CRAO occurring in a patient with chronic ICAO.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 52-year-old male presented with sudden, painless vision loss (finger counting) in the left eye due to CRAO secondary to chronic ICAO. After failed conservative treatment, IAT was performed via collateral circulation from the external carotid artery to the ophthalmic artery within 4 h of symptom onset. Administration of 50 mg alteplase through the maxillary artery branch improved retinal perfusion. Visual acuity in the left eye improved to 0.8 (decimal) within 24 h, with resolved retinal edema and stable outcomes at 2-month follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

This case suggests that IAT may be a feasible option for CRAO secondary to chronic ICAO in carefully selected patients with adequate collateral circulation and early intervention (< 4.5 h). Collateral assessment is critical for technical success, and larger studies are needed to validate efficacy.