Retinalarteriärerna

Retinalarteriärerna, also known as the retinal arteries, are the blood vessels responsible for supplying oxygen-rich blood to the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. They are branches of the ophthalmic artery, which originates from the internal carotid artery. The retinal arteries enter the eye through the optic nerve head and follow a radial pattern, extending centrally through the retina.

These arteries are characterized by their relatively small diameter and their thicker, more muscular walls compared to the retinal veins. The retinal arteries are crucial for maintaining the metabolic needs of the retinal tissue, supporting vision by providing essential nutrients and oxygen. Their health and appearance can be assessed during fundoscopic examinations, where changes can indicate systemic conditions such as hypertension or diabetes mellitus.

The retinal arteries are accompanied by retinal veins, which drain deoxygenated blood from the retina. The arterio-venous ratio, which compares the calibers of arteries to veins, is an important clinical marker used in evaluating vascular health and detecting early signs of ocular or systemic diseases.

Pathologies affecting the retinal arteries include arteriosclerosis, characterized by thickening and hardening of the arterial walls, and embolism, which can cause sudden visual loss due to occlusion of blood flow. Regular eye examinations can help detect abnormalities in the retinal arteries, facilitating early diagnosis and management of underlying systemic conditions.

In summary, retinal arteries are vital components of ocular vasculature, essential for retinal function and visual acuity, and serve as important indicators of overall vascular health.