Hematologic disorders of the eye

Abstract

Hematological disease may affect the eye in many ways. In this chapter we will focus on two of the most common hematologic diseases with ocular complications.Sickle cell disease refers to a group of genetic blood disorders characterized by a production of mutant hemoglobin causing vaso-occlusion of the microcirculation. We will explore the systemic and ocular complications of this hemoglobinopathy.Leukemia is a neoplasm of the leukocytes (white blood cells). It is the most common malignancy of childhood. The systemic and ocular complications of this disease are discussed with attention to diagnosis and management.