Question

A 67 year-old African American male presents for a new patient evaluation. History reveals an aphasic CVA which limits his history. Funduscopic examination reveals an abnormal vessel light reflex described as a silver or copper- wire appearance. Where the vessels intersect, there appears to be some nicking. He has no carotid bruits, and his cardiac exam is normal. What is the most likely cause of his ocular findings?

A. Cytomegalovirus retinitis
B Diabetic retinopathy
C. Hypertensive retinopathy
D. Sickle cell retinopathy

Answer 1

C. Hypertensive retinopathy. The most likely cause of his ocular findings is Hypertensive retinopathy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely cause of his ocular findings is Hypertensive retinopathy. Hypertensive retinopathy is a condition in which high blood pressure damages the blood vessels in the retina. The abnormal vessel light reflex described as a silver or copper-wire appearance and the nicking of vessels are characteristic findings of hypertensive retinopathy. Other factors such as the absence of carotid bruits and normal cardiac exam also support this diagnosis.