Point of Care Ultrasound for Rapid Identification of Central Retinal Artery Occlusion and Subsequent Vision Rescue Utilizing Intravenous Alteplase

Authors

Joseph Pepe, AdventHealth TampaFollow
Karl Kasischke
Calen Hart

ORCiD

0009-0004-9211-751X 0000-0003-0582-4319 0009-0004-4911-5615

Document Type

Case Report

Abstract

Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is a rare but critical diagnosis to make in patients with acute vision loss. Cases of central retinal artery occlusion historically have a poor prognosis due to delayed presentation, lack of early identification, and limited effective treatment options. Due to these challenges, patients are often left with permanent loss of vision.

We present a case of a male patient in his late 70s with sudden onset of loss of vision to the right eye. Identification of CRAO was made utilizing point of care ultrasound (POCUS). After discussion with neurology, the patient was treated with alteplase resulting in restoration of vision.

Our case highlights the utility of ocular ultrasound in acute visual loss and serves as a reminder to clinicians to consider the time-sensitive therapies which may be available to patients suffering from CRAO.

Recommended Citation

Pepe, Joseph; Kasischke, Karl; and Hart, Calen (2025) "Point of Care Ultrasound for Rapid Identification of Central Retinal Artery Occlusion and Subsequent Vision Rescue Utilizing Intravenous Alteplase," Florida Journal of Emergency Medicine (FJEM): Vol. 2.
Available at: https://stars.library.ucf.edu/fjem/vol2/iss1/8