What is the medical term for bleeding in the eye, also known as (Hemorrhage)?

From the Guidelines

Bleeding in the eye is medically referred to as a hemorrhage, with specific terms depending on the location, such as subconjunctival hemorrhage, intraretinal hemorrhages, or vitreous hemorrhage. The term for bleeding in the eye can vary based on the exact location and cause of the bleeding. According to the guidelines on diabetic eye care 1, bleeding in the eye can be associated with diabetic retinopathy, which is characterized by findings such as microaneurysms, dot and blot hemorrhages, hard exudates, and cotton wool spots. In the context of retinal vein occlusions 1, bleeding in the eye can occur due to retinal vascular leakage, leading to intraretinal hemorrhages.

• Key points to consider when evaluating bleeding in the eye include:
  • Location of the bleeding (e.g., subconjunctival, intraretinal, vitreous)
  • Underlying cause (e.g., trauma, diabetes, high blood pressure)
  • Presence of other symptoms (e.g., pain, vision changes)
  • Need for medical attention to rule out underlying conditions It is essential to seek medical attention if the bleeding is extensive, painful, affects vision, or recurs frequently, as this could indicate an underlying condition such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or blood clotting disorders 1.

From the Research

Medical Term for Bleeding in the Eye

The medical term for bleeding in the eye is:

• Hyphema: refers to the accumulation of blood in the anterior chamber of the eye 2, 3
• Vitreous hemorrhage: refers to the accumulation of blood in the vitreous gel that fills the center of the eye 2, 4

Causes and Associations

Bleeding in the eye can be caused by:

• Trauma to the eye 3
• Spontaneous occurrence, especially in patients taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications 2
• Conditions such as rubeosis iridis, juvenile xanthogranuloma, iris melanoma, myotonic dystrophy, keratouveitis, leukemia, hemophilia, and von Willebrand disease 3
• Use of substances that alter platelet or thrombin function, such as ethanol, aspirin, and warfarin 3

Complications and Risks

Bleeding in the eye can lead to complications such as:

• Increased intraocular pressure 2, 3, 5
• Peripheral anterior synechiae 3
• Optic atrophy 3
• Corneal bloodstaining 3
• Secondary hemorrhage 3
• Accommodative impairment 3
• Vision loss 4