Quality of life in Patients with Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Review of the Literature.

Abstract

Background: Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is the second most common retinal vascular disorder after diabetic retinopathy and represents a significant cause of visual loss worldwide. Beyond visual impairment, RVO can profoundly affect patients' wellbeing and overall vision-related quality of life (QoL). Increasing evidence indicates that vision-related disability contributes to increased levels of anxiety and social limitations in affected individuals. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on QoL outcomes in patients with RVO, highlight factors influencing psychological outcomes and explore the role of treatment interventions in modifying patient-reported wellbeing.

Summary: Across the included studies, patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) reported significantly reduced vision-related quality of life (QoL) compared with healthy controls, as assessed by the NEI VFQ-25. Anti-VEGF therapies, including ranibizumab, aflibercept, and bevacizumab, consistently improved QoL scores, with gains evident as early as one month and sustained up to 12 months. Improvements were most pronounced in visual function and daily activity subscales, although near vision, mental health, and social functioning frequently remained below normal levels. Predictors of better QoL outcomes included stereopsis, fellow-eye vision, and central macular thickness reduction, while systemic comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes were associated with poorer outcomes.

Key messages: While anti-VEGF therapy improves QoL in patients with RVO, long-term management should extend beyond vision restoration. A multidisciplinary approach-integrating ophthalmology, primary care, and psychological support-is essential to address systemic risk factors, reduce treatment burden, and improve overall wellbeing. Future studies should explore long-term QoL outcomes and evaluate strategies that support holistic, patient-centered care.