Question

A patient comes to the clinic with concern over red spots on his sclera that began three days ago. He does not have any other complaints. He has a history of COPD and diabetes. He was recently treated for an upper respiratory infection. What is the mostly likely diagnosis?

a. Glaucoma
b. Subconjunctival hemorrhage
c. Iritis
d. Macular degeneration

Answer 1

The red streaks on the patient's sclera are likely a subconjunctival hemorrhage, commonly caused by the rupture of small blood vessels in the eye, potentially related to recent respiratory strain.

Step-by-step explanation:

The term that refers to the red streaks seen on the patient's sclera is subconjunctival hemorrhage. This condition is likely caused by the rupture of small blood vessels in the sclera, which can occur due to various factors, including straining, hypertension, or trauma. Given the lack of other complaints and the recent history of an upper respiratory infection, as well as the association between coughing, sneezing, or straining from a respiratory infection and the risk of causing these hemorrhages, subconjunctival hemorrhage is the most likely diagnosis.