Which complication should you monitor for after RVO treatment?

• A. Glaucoma
• B. Cataract
• C. Retinal detachment
• D. Optic neuritis

Answer: (A)

Monitoring intraocular pressure after retinal vein occlusion treatment is essential because the main post-treatment risk is glaucoma. Treatments such as intravitreal steroids and anti-VEGF injections can cause elevated IOP—steroids can lead to steroid-induced glaucoma with ongoing use, while injections can trigger transient IOP spikes. In ischemic retinal vein occlusion, there’s also a risk of neovascular glaucoma due to new vessel growth in the iris or angle, which can be devastating if not caught early. Therefore, regular checks of IOP, optic nerve appearance, and field/visual function are key after treatment.

Cataract, retinal detachment, and optic neuritis are less directly tied to the common post-treatment course of RVO therapy. Cataracts may develop with long-term steroid exposure, but glaucoma remains the primary complication to monitor for in this context.