When should I consider referring a patient with BRVO to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation and treatment?

The provided UK guideline excerpts do not specifically detail referral criteria for Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO) ¹,²,³,⁴,⁵,⁶. However, based on principles for other acute retinal conditions, you should consider an urgent referral to an ophthalmologist for further evaluation and treatment if a patient presents with:

• Rapid onset visual loss ³,⁴.
• Visual distortion (metamorphopsia) ³,⁴.
• Visual field loss or changes in visual acuity ⁵.

The basis for urgent referral in such cases is that treatments are available in secondary care that should be given as soon as possible to prevent visual loss ³,⁴. Hospital eye services are equipped to provide diagnosis and treatment for eye conditions ¹.