Branch retinal artery occlusion after excessive use of nasal spray

Ann Ophthalmol. 1985 Aug;17(8):500-1.

Abstract

A young, otherwise healthy man presented with an acute retinal artery obstruction following excessive use of oxymethazolone hydrochloride 0.5% (Afrin) nasal spray. Platelet coagulation studies indicated a platelet aggregation hypersensitivity to adenosine diphosphate and epinephrine. A predisposition for sympathomimetic drug-induced platelet fibrin embolus formation appears to be the cause of the retinal artery obstruction in this case.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Arterial Occlusive Diseases / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Imidazoles / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Nasal Decongestants / administration & dosage
  • Nasal Decongestants / adverse effects*
  • Oxymetazoline / adverse effects*
  • Retinal Artery* / pathology

Substances

  • Imidazoles
  • Nasal Decongestants
  • Oxymetazoline