COVID-19, Vaccines, and Retinal Vascular Disease
A global systematic review of 173 studies found differing associations between COVID-19 infection and vaccination and retinal vascular events, with retinal artery occlusion more common after infection and retinal vein occlusion more common after vaccination.
Clinical Scorecard: COVID-19, Vaccines, and Retinal Vascular Disease
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Retinal Vascular Events Key Mechanisms Association between COVID-19 infection and vaccination with retinal vascular occlusions. Target Population Individuals with COVID-19 infection or vaccination history. Care Setting Ophthalmology/Retina Clinics
Key Highlights
Retinal artery occlusion more common after COVID-19 infection. Retinal vein occlusion more common after COVID-19 vaccination. mRNA vaccines associated with higher ocular adverse events. Pooled relative risk for retinal vein occlusion is 2.4, but statistically inconclusive. Need for broadened differential diagnosis including RVO and white dot syndrome. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Consider retinal vascular occlusions in patients with COVID-19 infection or vaccination. Management
Monitor for retinal artery and vein occlusions in affected patients. Monitoring & Follow-up
Emphasize ongoing vaccine surveillance for ocular adverse events. Risks
Increased risk of retinal artery occlusion post-infection and retinal vein occlusion post-vaccination. Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with recent COVID-19 infection or vaccination.
Awareness of potential ocular complications is crucial for timely intervention.
Clinical Best Practices
Broaden differential diagnosis to include RVO and white dot syndrome. Conduct thorough ocular examinations in patients with COVID-19 history. Related Resources & Content
