FREE ABO Retina and Vitreous Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following findings is the defining feature that differentiates proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) from severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR)?

Accepted Answer

Neovascularization of the disc (NVD)

Answer

The hallmark of proliferative diabetic retinopathy is neovascularization, which is the growth of new, abnormal blood vessels. These can occur on the optic disc (NVD) or elsewhere on the retina (NVE) and are a response to widespread retinal ischemia.

Question 2

A 75-year-old patient reports sudden, painless, distorted central vision in one eye. OCT reveals subretinal fluid and intraretinal cysts. What is the most appropriate initial treatment?

Accepted Answer

Intravitreal anti-VEGF injection

Answer

The findings are classic for neovascular or 'wet' age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The standard of care and first-line treatment is intravitreal injection of an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agent to inhibit the growth of abnormal choroidal vessels and reduce fluid leakage.

Question 3

A patient presents with a sudden onset of numerous floaters and flashes of light, followed by a 'curtain' coming down over their vision. This presentation is most classic for which type of retinal detachment?

Accepted Answer

Rhegmatogenous

Answer

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment is caused by a tear or break in the retina, allowing vitreous fluid to seep underneath and separate the retina from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium. The initial tear often causes symptoms of flashes (photopsia) and floaters.

Question 4

An 80-year-old male with a history of atrial fibrillation presents with sudden, profound, painless vision loss in his right eye. Fundus exam reveals a pale retina and a 'cherry-red spot' in the macula. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO)

Answer

A central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) presents with acute, painless, severe vision loss. The cherry-red spot occurs because the macula receives its blood supply from the underlying choroid, so it remains red while the surrounding ischemic retina becomes pale and opaque.

Question 5

A 65-year-old patient with a history of hypertension is diagnosed with a central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). What is the most common cause of vision loss in this condition?

Accepted Answer

Macular edema

Answer

Macular edema is the most frequent cause of vision loss in both central and branch retinal vein occlusions. The venous obstruction leads to increased back pressure in the capillaries, causing fluid to leak into the macula.

ABO - American Board of Ophthalmology Practice Test

ABO - American Board of Ophthalmology Practice Test

FREE ABO Retina and Vitreous Questions and Answers