Identification of anastomosis between the central retinal artery and the central retinal vein in a case of central retinal vein occlusion due to arteriovenous malformation.

PURPOSE: To report the identification of an arteriovenous anastomosis over the optic nerve head in a case of arteriovenous malformation. CASE REPORT: Dynamic scanning laser angiography was performed in a 12 year old girl with a severe arteriovenous malformation complicated by central retinal vein occlusion. RESULTS: The presence of an arteriovenous anastomosis between the central retinal artery and vein was identified. This anastomosis later regressed completely. CONCLUSIONS: An arteriovenous anastomosis between central vessels within the optic nerve may be a cause of central retinal vein occlusion. Spontaneous regression of the anastomoses may lead to improvement of fundus features.