Ocular neovascularization. The Krill memorial lecture

Am J Ophthalmol. 1978 Mar;85(3):287-301.

Abstract

The various vascular systems of the eye can undergo new vessel formation. In this presentation, I discuss new vessel growth in the cornea, lens, iris, ciliary body, choroid, retina, and optic nerve head. No single factor can explain all cases of ocular neovascularization; instead there are multiple factors which can affect the various susceptible vessels. Among the known vasculognic factors are: inflammation and its products, a hypoxic retina diffusable factor, the "tumor angiogenic factor," and possibly an aging factor. The different ocular beds possess differing sensitivity to the various vasculogenic stimuli; the iris and choroid being most sensitive and the retina and ciliary body least sensitive to such stimuli. Retinal neovascularization requires both a biochemical factor and a diseased retinal vascular bed for its induction. Ocular neovascularization is a dynamic process which requires a persisting stimulus or else the new vessels tend to regress. The normal eye seems to possess at least two antivasculogenic agents.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Sickle Cell / complications
  • Animals
  • Blood Vessels / growth & development*
  • Choroid / blood supply
  • Ciliary Body / blood supply
  • Cornea / blood supply
  • Diabetes Complications
  • Diabetic Retinopathy / complications
  • Eye / blood supply*
  • Eye Diseases / complications*
  • Eye Injuries / complications
  • Guinea Pigs
  • Humans
  • Iris / blood supply
  • Lens, Crystalline / blood supply
  • Optic Disk / blood supply
  • Retina
  • Retinopathy of Prematurity / complications