Atrial Fibrillation: An Underestimated Cause of Ischemic Monocular Visual Loss?

Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major cause of ischemic stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) and investigation for paroxysmal AF is recommended following an embolic brain event. In contrast, retinal ischemic monocular blindness is traditionally considered most linked to carotid artery disease (CAS) and investigating for AF is less vigilant. We aimed to determine the prevalence of AF in patients with ischemic monocular blindness.

Undertreatment of Vascular Risk Factors in Patients with Monocular Ischaemic Visual Loss.

Background And Purpose: Ischaemic visual loss is often considered a lower risk factor than other transient ischaemic attacks (TIA). We aimed to determine the recurrence risk, prevalence and management of vascular risk factors in these patients.

Methods: The study took place in the University College Hospital London daily TIA clinic, main referral centre for North-Central London and Moorfields Eye Hospital.