What is a primary cause of retinal artery occlusion in patients over 40 years of age?

The primary cause of retinal artery occlusion in patients over 40 years of age is carotid artery atherosclerosis. This condition refers to the buildup of plaque within the carotid arteries, which can lead to stenosis or blockage. As plaque accumulates, fragments may break off and travel to the smaller arteries in the eye, particularly the retinal arteries, resulting in occlusion and subsequent vision loss.

In older populations, atherosclerosis is a common and significant pathology that affects vascular health, making them more susceptible to these types of occlusions. The risk factors for carotid artery atherosclerosis, such as hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and smoking, contribute to its prevalence in this age group, leading to increased instances of retinal artery occlusion.

Other potential causes of retinal artery occlusion do play a role, but carotid artery atherosclerosis is specifically noted for its strong association with this condition in older adults due to the prevalence of vascular disease in this demographic.