CRAO
Central Retinal Artery Occlusion
Plain-language definition
Blockage of the main artery to the retina - an 'eye stroke' causing sudden, severe, painless vision loss. An ocular emergency.
Where this term comes up
“Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is often described as a "stroke of the eye."”
Condition · Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO)
“A retinal artery occlusion (CRAO or BRAO) is an eye stroke and cannot be distinguished from other causes at home.”
Finding · Altitudinal Visual Field Defect
“CRAO is a retinal stroke. BE-FAST: Balance, Eyes, Face, Arm, Speech—Time to call 911.”
Guide · Sudden Vision Loss Emergency Guide - When to Seek Immediate Care
- Category
- Condition, finding, or disease process
- Also written as
- No alternate forms listed.
Pathology terms describe diseases, tissue changes, exam findings, or complications that can affect vision or eye comfort.
Related glossary terms
A note on medical context
A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.