Retinal vein occlusion is a common form of retinal vascular disease, especially in middle-aged and older individuals. The diagnosis is based on the funduscopic finding of retinal vein dilatation in association with retinal hemorrhages and cotton-wool spots. The pathology can involve the entire venous system or can be limited to a branch of the central retinal vein. Retinal vein occlusion can be distinguished clinically from diabetic retinopathy and other retinal diseases. Treatment for the acute phase of retinal vein occlusion has been disappointing. However, some late complications, such as persistent macular edema and neovascularization of the iris and retina, respond well to retinal photocoagulation. The family physician has an important role in detecting and controlling risk factors for retinal vein occlusion, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus and hyperviscosity syndromes.