Free FRCOPHTH MCQs MCQs
FRCOphth Part 1 / Step 1 MCQs built from Ryan, Kanski, and Elkington.
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All 120 free FRCOPHTH MCQs MCQs, with answers and explanations
The quiz above serves a random 8 of these each time you retake it. Every question in the set is listed below — read the stem, commit to an option, then open the answer to check your reasoning against the explanation.
- 1
Corneal Collagen Lamellae?
- A50
- B100
- C200
- D300
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — 200
Corneal stroma: ~90% corneal thickness, ~200–250 collagen lamellae centrally (more peripherally).
- 2
Decentered Ablation?
- AComa
- BTrefoil
- CSpherical aberration
- DQuadrafoil
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: A — Coma
| Aberration | Cause | | Coma | Decentered ablation | | Spherical aberration | Small optical zone, post-LASIK | | Trefoil | Irregular optics | | Quadrafoil | Fourth-order aberration |
- 3
Conductive Keratoplasty?
- AAstigmatism
- BRegression of effect
- CUndercorrection
- DOvercorrection
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Regression of effect
CK uses radiofrequency to steepen central cornea for low hyperopia/presbyopia. Major problem: regression over time.
- 4
Optical Zone Size?
- A5.5 mm
- B6.0 mm
- C6.5 mm
- D7.0 mm
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — 6.0 mm
Most modern LASIK uses 6.0–6.5 mm optical zone. Smaller optical zone → halos, glare, night vision symptoms.
- 5
Potential Vision Worse Than Post-op Vision?
- ACME
- BDilated pupil during testing
- CIrregular cornea
- DAmblyopia
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Answer: B — Dilated pupil during testing
Potential acuity can be falsely optimistic because of irregular cornea, pinhole effect, amblyopia underestimation. Pupil dilation does not produce falsely good results.
- 6
Wavefront Aberrations?
- AMyopia
- BPrism
- CHyperopia
- DAstigmatism
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Prism
| Order | Aberration | | 0th | Defocus | | 1st | Horizontal prism, Vertical prism | | 2nd | Myopia, Hyperopia, Astigmatism | | 3rd | Coma, Trefoil | | 4th | Spherical aberration, Quadrafoil |
- 7
Corneal Topography?
- AAxial map
- BInstantaneous map
- CSagittal map
- DPower map
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Instantaneous map
| Map | Best Use | | Axial (Sagittal) | Central cornea | | Instantaneous (Tangential) | Peripheral cornea | | Elevation | Keratoconus | | Difference map | Follow-up changes |
- 8
Peripheral Rays Focus in Front of Central Rays?
- AComa
- BTrefoil
- CSpherical aberration
- DQuadrafoil
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — Spherical aberration
Positive spherical aberration: peripheral rays focus anteriorly, causing halos and night vision problems. Common after myopic LASIK.
- 9
Peripheral Corneal Relaxing Incisions Contraindicated?
- AHistory of PKP
- BArcus senilis
- CPseudophakia
- DTerrien marginal degeneration
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Answer: D — Terrien marginal degeneration
Why? Terrien: peripheral thinning, risk of perforation. Avoid relaxing incisions.
- 10
Best Astigmatism Evaluation Before LASIK?
- ARefraction
- BComputerized corneal topography
- CRetinoscopy
- DKeratometry
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Answer: B — Computerized corneal topography
Why? Detects forme fruste keratoconus, corneal irregularity, ectasia risk.
- 11
Post-RK Cataract Surgery?
- AAutomated keratometry
- BPre-RK calculations
- CManual keratometry
- DContact lens method
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — Manual keratometry
After RK, central cornea flattened; automated K less reliable; manual keratometry preferred.
- 12
IOL Moves Anteriorly?
- AHyperopic shift
- BNo effect
- CMyopic shift
- DNot determinable
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — Myopic shift
| Lens movement | Result | | Anterior | Myopic shift | | Posterior | Hyperopic shift |
- 13
Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO)?
- AHyperbaric oxygen
- BAnterior chamber tap
- CAcetazolamide + topical β-blockers
- DAnticoagulation with Coumadin
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: D — Anticoagulation with Coumadin
CRAO treatments historically attempted: ocular massage, anterior chamber paracentesis, IOP lowering, hyperbaric oxygen, carbogen, intra-arterial tPA. Warfarin has no role in acute CRAO.
- 14
Uveal Effusion Syndrome?
- AOccurs in eyes with abnormally short axial length
- BPrevented by Flieringa ring
- CTreated by vitrectomy
- DAssociated with hypertension and atherosclerosis
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Answer: A — Occurs in eyes with abnormally short axial length
Uveal effusion syndrome: nanophthalmos, thick sclera, impaired vortex vein drainage, recurrent choroidal effusions. Association: short eye + thick sclera.
- 15
Fastest Expanding Intraocular Gas?
- AAir
- B100% C3F8
- C100% SF6
- D14% C3F8
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — 100% SF6
| Gas | Expansion | | Air | None | | SF6 | Fastest | | C3F8 | Longest duration |
- 16
Silicone Oil Surface Tension?
- AGreater than C3F8
- BGreater than air
- CLess than SF6
- DEqual to water
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Answer: C — Less than SF6
All gases have higher surface tension than silicone oil. Gas tamponade > Silicone oil tamponade.
- 17
Coats Disease?
- AUsually unilateral
- BIncreased risk of rhegmatogenous RD
- CMale predominance
- DMay require laser photocoagulation
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Answer: B — Increased risk of rhegmatogenous RD
Classic Coats Disease: Young boys, unilateral, retinal telangiectasia, massive lipid exudation, exudative RD. ❌ Not rhegmatogenous RD.
- 18
Persistent Fetal Vasculature (PFV/PHPV)?
- AInitially associated with clear lens or mild opacity that later becomes dense cataract
- BOften bilateral
- CAssociated with low birth weight
- DAssociated with buphthalmos
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Answer: A — Initially associated with clear lens or mild opacity that later becomes dense cataract
PFV: Failure of hyaloid regression, microphthalmos, leukocoria, usually unilateral.; ROP: Prematurity, low birth weight.; PFV is NOT associated with low birth weight.
- 19
Presumed Ocular Histoplasmosis Syndrome (POHS)?
- AMild vitritis
- BChoroidal neovascularization
- CSmall punched-out chorioretinal scars
- DPeripapillary atrophy
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Answer: A — Mild vitritis
Punched-out scars, peripapillary atrophy, CNVM.
- 20
Young Patient with CRVO?
- AHypercoagulable condition
- BInfection
- CGiant cell arteritis
- DThromboembolic disease
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Answer: A — Hypercoagulable condition
Young CRVO (<50 years): hypercoagulable workup (APS, Protein C/S deficiency, Factor V Leiden).
- 21
Branch Retinal Artery Occlusion (BRAO)?
- AESR/CRP/Platelets
- BLower IOP
- CEmergent embolic workup
- DOcular massage
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — Emergent embolic workup
BRAO = Stroke equivalent. Workup: carotid Doppler, echocardiography, brain imaging.
- 22
Ocular Ischemic Syndrome (OIS)?
- ACarotid occlusive disease
- BPDR
- CRVO
- DRadiation retinopathy
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: A — Carotid occlusive disease
Mid-peripheral hemorrhages, iris neovascularization, ocular pain, delayed choroidal filling, low retinal arterial pressure.
- 23
Multiple Cotton-Wool Spots?
- ALiver transplantation
- BEpisodes of weakness and numbness
- CHigh-risk sexual behavior
- DPolyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia
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Answer: B — Episodes of weakness and numbness
Interferon retinopathy. Associated with liver transplant, hepatitis treatment, diabetes, HIV. Not multiple sclerosis.
- 24
Imaging Question: Most Specific Noninvasive Test for RPE Cell Death?
- AFAF
- BFluorescein angiography
- CFundus photography
- DOCTA
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: A — FAF
Lipofuscin in RPE fluoresces. Dead RPE → loss of autofluorescence → dark lesions on FAF. FAF best for geographic atrophy, Stargardt disease, pattern dystrophies.
- 25
Electrophysiology Question: Direct Measure of Retinal Ganglion Cell Function?
- APERG
- BEOG
- CmfERG
- DVEP
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Answer: A — PERG
| Test | Measures | | PERG | Ganglion cells | | EOG | RPE function | | mfERG | Macular function | | VEP | Visual pathway |
- 26
Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)?
- AMore common after intracapsular cataract surgery
- B<20% symptomatic PVD have retinal tears
- C>50% symptomatic PVD + vitreous hemorrhage have tear
- DPVD starts at optic disc and spreads temporally
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Answer: D — PVD starts at optic disc and spreads temporally
OCT shows PVD typically begins in perifoveal macula, NOT optic disc.
- 27
Lattice Degeneration?
- APrevalence 5–10% of population
- B>75% RRD eyes have lattice
- CBilateral in >75%
- DLess common in myopes
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Answer: A — Prevalence 5–10% of population
Population prevalence 5–10%; bilateral 30–50%; present in 20–30% of RRD.
- 28
Main Site of Resistance to Aqueous Outflow?
- AUveal trabecular meshwork
- BCorneoscleral trabecular meshwork
- CJuxtacanalicular trabecular meshwork
- DSchlemm's canal
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Answer: C — Juxtacanalicular trabecular meshwork
Trabecular meshwork layers: uveal meshwork, corneoscleral meshwork, juxtacanalicular meshwork (cribriform layer) ← greatest resistance. Most common glaucoma board question.
- 29
Glaucoma Laser Trial (GLT)?
- ABetter visual field score with laser first
- BLower IOP with laser first
- CMost laser-treated eyes did not require medication
- DLaser trabeculoplasty ≈ timolol efficacy
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Answer: C — Most laser-treated eyes did not require medication
After 2 years: ~56% still required medications. ALT comparable to timolol.
- 30
Infantile Glaucoma Progression?
- AIncreasing axial length
- BAmblyopia
- CIncreasing horizontal diameter
- DIncreasing myopia
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Answer: B — Amblyopia
Increasing axial length, buphthalmos, increased corneal diameter, increasing myopia.
- 31
Late Bleb-Associated Endophthalmitis?
- AStaph epidermidis
- BStreptococcus pneumoniae
- CPseudomonas
- DPropionibacterium acnes
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Answer: B — Streptococcus pneumoniae
Late bleb infection → Streptococcus species or H. influenzae. Early postop cataract endophthalmitis → Staph epidermidis.
- 32
Superior Visual Field Defect?
- AGlaucoma
- BLens rim artifact
- CHigh false-positive rate
- DPtosis
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Answer: C — High false-positive rate
High false-positive VF: "trigger-happy" patient, artificially better sensitivity, white scotomas.
- 33
Most Urgent Post-Trabeculectomy Problem?
- AChoroidal hemorrhage
- BChoroidal effusion
- CShallow AC with lens-cornea touch
- DShallow AC with iris-cornea touch
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Answer: C — Shallow AC with lens-cornea touch
Lens-cornea touch causes corneal decompensation and cataract progression. Needs immediate intervention.
- 34
Elevated IOP After Heavy PRP?
- ACycloplegic
- BLaser iridotomy
- CLaser iridoplasty
- DTrabeculectomy
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Answer: A — Cycloplegic
PRP → ciliary body edema → forward rotation of ciliary body → angle closure.
- 35
Earlier Detection of Glaucoma?
- ASuprathreshold testing
- BOCT
- CCSLO
- DFrequency-doubling technology (FDT)
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Answer: D — Frequency-doubling technology (FDT)
FDT targets magnocellular ganglion cells and can detect early glaucomatous damage.
- 36
Infantile Glaucoma with Corneal Clouding?
- ATrabeculectomy
- BTrabeculotomy
- CCyclophotocoagulation
- DGoniotomy
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Answer: B — Trabeculotomy
| Cornea | Surgery | | Clear | Goniotomy | | Cloudy | Trabeculotomy |
- 37
Apraclonidine (Iopidine)?
- AAlpha-1 agonist
- BMay cause transient lid retraction
- CCommonly causes hypotension
- DCauses CME in aphakia
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Answer: B — May cause transient lid retraction
Apraclonidine: alpha-2 agonist, conjunctival blanching, lid retraction, allergic blepharoconjunctivitis.
- 38
Pilocarpine in Young Myope?
- ASmall pupil
- BIncreased myopia
- CRetinal detachment
- DIncreased hyperopia
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Answer: B — Increased myopia
Pilocarpine: accommodative spasm, lens thickening, forward lens movement, increased myopia.
- 39
Goldmann Applanation Tonometry?
- A3.06 mm
- B3.16 mm
- C3.10 mm
- D3.01 mm
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Answer: A — 3.06 mm
At 3.06 mm, corneal rigidity and tear-film surface tension cancel each other.
- 40
Medication Causing Most Dermatitis?
- ALatanoprost
- BBrimonidine
- CDorzolamide
- DApraclonidine
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Answer: D — Apraclonidine
Apraclonidine: allergic dermatitis ≈ 40%, limits chronic use.
- 41
Herpetic Keratitis and Glaucoma Therapy?
- ALatanoprost
- BTimolol
- CBrimonidine
- DMethazolamide
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Answer: A — Latanoprost
Prostaglandin analogs may reactivate HSV keratitis, uveitis, CME. Avoid in these settings.
- 42
Visual Field Artifact and Pupil Size?
- A1.5 mm
- B2.5 mm
- C3.5 mm
- D4.5 mm
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — 2.5 mm
Pupil <2.5 mm → generalized depression artifact on Humphrey VF.
- 43
Substance That Lowers IOP?
- AAlcohol
- BLSD
- CCaffeine
- DKetamine
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: A — Alcohol
↓ IOP: Alcohol, Cannabis, Heroin; ↑ IOP: Ketamine, LSD
- 44
Image Question: Gray-White Lens Deposits?
- AAcute angle-closure glaucoma
- BChronic angle closure glaucoma
- CUveitic glaucoma
- DPseudoexfoliation glaucoma
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: A — Acute angle-closure glaucoma
Glaukomflecken = anterior subcapsular lens epithelial necrosis caused by a previous acute angle-closure attack.
- 45
Closed-loop Anterior Chamber IOL with Corneal Edema?
- ACorneal pachymetry
- BGonioscopy
- CSpecular microscopy
- DCorneal topography
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Answer: D — Corneal topography
In pseudophakic bullous keratopathy:; Pachymetry → corneal thickness; Specular microscopy → endothelial count; Gonioscopy → haptic position; Topography → least useful
- 46
Shallow AC During Phaco with Intact Posterior Capsule?
- AEmpty infusion bottle
- BChoroidal hemorrhage
- CMisdirection syndrome
- DPatient maneuver
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — Misdirection syndrome
Fluid passes through zonules behind capsule → posterior pressure → shallow AC.
- 47
Prevention of Postoperative Endophthalmitis?
- A5% povidone-iodine preparation
- BTreat blepharitis preoperatively
- CAdd gentamicin to irrigating solution
- DAdhesive drape isolating lashes
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — Add gentamicin to irrigating solution
Best proven prevention = povidone iodine.
- 48
Long-Term Sequela of Flat/Shallow AC?
- AGlaucomatous cupping
- BVitreous hemorrhage
- CCapsular block syndrome
- DCorneal decompensation
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: D — Corneal decompensation
- 49
Risk Factor for Postoperative Corneal Edema?
- AAMD
- BTopical steroids
- CPosterior chamber phacoemulsification
- DFuchs dystrophy
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: D — Fuchs dystrophy
Fuchs = endothelial failure → postop edema.
- 50
Contraindication to Topical Anesthesia?
- AMonocular patient
- BNystagmus
- CDementia
- DLong axial length
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Nystagmus
Continuous eye movement makes surgery unsafe under topical anesthesia.
- 51
Triple Procedure (PK + Cataract Surgery)?
- ADecreased polymegathism
- BCorneal pachymetry >640 μm
- CDecreased pleomorphism
- DEndothelial count >1000/mm²
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Corneal pachymetry >640 μm
Fuchs dystrophy: pachymetry >640 μm → likely need corneal transplant.
- 52
Ideal Continuous Curvilinear Capsulorrhexis (CCC)?
- ADetermined by staining zonules
- BFit within scotopic pupil
- CExpose all optic in multifocal IOL
- DOverlap anterior optic edge while allowing cataract removal
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Answer: D — Overlap anterior optic edge while allowing cataract removal
Ideal CCC: centered, covers optic edge 360°, prevents PCO.
- 53
Intumescent Cataract?
- AIris prolapse
- BChoroidal effusion
- CCorneal wound burn
- DCapsular radial tear
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: D — Capsular radial tear
"Argentinian flag sign."
- 54
Viscoelastic Material?
- ASodium hyaluronate
- BKeratan sulfate
- CHydroxypropyl methylcellulose
- DChondroitin sulfate
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Keratan sulfate
Sodium hyaluronate; Chondroitin sulfate; Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose
- 55
Retrobulbar Hemorrhage?
- AVitreous aspiration
- BLateral canthotomy ± paracentesis
- CGlobe massage
- DTarsorrhaphy
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Lateral canthotomy ± paracentesis
Emergency Pearl: Retrobulbar hemorrhage + rock-hard eye = immediate lateral canthotomy/cantholysis.
- 56
Posterior Capsular Rupture with Vitreous Loss?
- AConvert to ECCE if needed
- BAutomated vitrectomy
- CInject viscoelastic under nucleus
- DContinue gentle phaco because phaco cuts vitreous
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Answer: D — Continue gentle phaco because phaco cuts vitreous
Never continue routine phaco in vitreous loss.
- 57
Highly Myopic Eyes?
- ADeep and constant
- BDeep and fluctuating
- CShallow and constant
- DShallow and fluctuating
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Deep and fluctuating
High myopes: deep AC, marked fluctuations during phaco.
- 58
Refractive Surgery in a 54-Year-Old Engineer (-6.5 D)?
- AFull emmetropia LASIK
- BCorrect all but 1 D of myopia in each eye
- CMonovision
- DFull emmetropia PRK
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Answer: B — Correct all but 1 D of myopia in each eye
Presbyopic patient wanting computer vision → leave mild residual myopia (~1 D).
- 59
Use of Iris Hooks?
- APhacolytic glaucoma
- BExfoliation syndrome
- CDislocated crystalline lens
- DPositive vitreous pressure
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Exfoliation syndrome
Pseudoexfoliation: poor dilation, weak zonules, iris hooks frequently needed.
- 60
Retinal Flap Tear Before Cataract Surgery?
- ALaser demarcation before cataract surgery
- BCataract surgery + intra-op laser
- CLaser after cataract surgery
- DCareful cataract surgery
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: A — Laser demarcation before cataract surgery
Symptomatic retinal tear = treat first, cataract later.
- 61
IOL Formula for High Axial Hyperopia (Short Eye)?
- ASRK II
- BColenbrander
- CHoffer Q
- DSRK
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — Hoffer Q
Formula Pearls:; Short eyes (<22 mm) → Hoffer Q; Average eyes → SRK/T; Long eyes → Holladay 2, Barrett, Haigis
- 62
Cataract Surgery in With-the-Rule Astigmatism?
- ASuperior scleral incision + LRIs at 180°
- BSuperior frown incision
- CToric IOL axis 180°
- DTemporal clear corneal incision + paired LRIs at 90°
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: D — Temporal clear corneal incision + paired LRIs at 90°
With-the-rule astigmatism: steepen 180°, flatten 90°. LRIs placed in steep meridian (90°).
- 63
Diffusely Distributed Keratic Precipitates?
- AFuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis
- BSarcoidosis
- CVogt–Koyanagi–Harada syndrome
- DSyphilis
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada syndrome
Diffuse KPs → Fuchs, Sarcoidosis, Syphilis, Keratouveitis. VKH usually has inferior KPs.
- 64
HLA-B27 Associated Disease?
- ABehçet disease
- BPsoriatic arthritis
- CCrohn disease
- DReactive arthritis
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: A — Behçet disease
Behçet → HLA-B5 (Bw51), not HLA-B27.
- 65
Band Keratopathy in JIA?
- ACalcium carbonate at Descemet membrane
- BCalcium hydroxyapatite at Descemet membrane
- CCalcium carbonate at Bowman membrane
- DCalcium hydroxyapatite at Bowman membrane
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: D — Calcium hydroxyapatite at Bowman membrane
Band keratopathy = calcium hydroxyapatite deposition in Bowman layer.
- 66
HLA-B27 Counseling?
- AAlmost 10% will develop AAU
- B8% of population is HLA-B27 positive, but only 0.012% develop AAU
- CTwo-thirds of HLA-B27 positives develop AAU
- DHLA-B27 is not associated with AAU
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — 8% of population is HLA-B27 positive, but only 0.012% develop AAU
Only about 1 in 667 HLA-B27 positive individuals develop AAU.
- 67
HLA-DR4 Association?
- AAcute anterior uveitis
- BBehçet disease
- CBirdshot chorioretinopathy
- DSympathetic ophthalmia
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: D — Sympathetic ophthalmia
HLA-DR4 ↔ Sympathetic ophthalmia and VKH.
- 68
JIA Chronic Anterior Uveitis?
- ABand keratopathy
- BFibrinous AC reaction
- CHypopyon
- DVitritis
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: A — Band keratopathy
JIA uveitis is chronic, silent, destructive → band keratopathy, cataract, posterior synechiae.
- 69
SUN Classification of Recurrent Uveitis?
- ARecurrence <3 months after stopping treatment
- BRecurrence >3 months after treatment discontinued
- CRecurrence irrespective of treatment status
- DResolves in <3 months
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Recurrence >3 months after treatment discontinued
Acute: <3 months; Chronic: relapse <3 months after stopping therapy; Recurrent: relapse after >3 months of inactivity off treatment
- 70
Intermediate Uveitis with Multiple Sclerosis?
- ASC adalimumab
- BIV infliximab
- CIV methylprednisolone
- DSC etanercept
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — IV methylprednisolone
Anti-TNF agents may worsen demyelinating disease.
- 71
Drug Causing Human Anti-Chimeric Antibodies?
- AAbatacept
- BInfliximab
- CInterferon alfa-2a/2b
- DTacrolimus
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — Infliximab
- 72
HLA-B27 Uveitis with Ankylosing Spondylitis?
- AUrinalysis
- BPathergy test
- CAqueous tap PCR
- DChest X-ray and cardiac echogram
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: D — Chest X-ray and cardiac echogram
AS may be associated with pulmonary apical fibrosis and aortic regurgitation.
- 73
Scleritis and BRAO?
- AANA
- BLumbar puncture
- CUrinalysis
- DTemporal artery biopsy
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — Urinalysis
Scleritis with tracheomalacia suggests relapsing polychondritis or systemic vasculitis. Urinalysis assesses renal involvement.
- 74
Ocular vs Generalized Myasthenia?
- AMore commonly associated with Graves' disease
- BMore responsive to anticholinesterase drugs
- CMore responsive to steroids
- DCompletely localized to ocular or bulbar involvement
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: D — Completely localized to ocular or bulbar involvement
Ocular myasthenia is restricted to extraocular, levator, and orbicularis oculi muscles (± bulbar). It is less responsive to anticholinesterases than generalized disease and is not specifically linked to Graves' disease.
- 75
Drug-Induced Myasthenia?
- AWarfarin
- BD-penicillamine
- CDiltiazem
- DRanitidine
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: B — D-penicillamine
D-penicillamine is the classic drug causing an autoimmune myasthenic syndrome. Other reported agents include aminoglycosides, macrolides, fluoroquinolones, statins, and beta-blockers.
- 76
Migraine with Homonymous Hemianopia?
- ACerebral MRI
- BDiscontinue oral contraceptives
- CSumatriptan (Imitrex)
- DTangent screen
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: A — Cerebral MRI
A new, persistent homonymous hemianopia in a migraine patient requires neuroimaging to rule out a posterior visual pathway lesion (stroke, mass, AVM). Aura is transient; persistent deficit is not typical aura.
- 77
Indications for Treating Pseudotumor Cerebri (Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension)?
- A1, 2, 3
- B1 and 3
- C2 and 4
- D4 only
- E1, 2, 3, 4
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — 2 and 4
Treatment of IIH is indicated for debilitating headache and any visual field loss/threat to vision. Asymptomatic papilledema alone may be observed; obesity is a risk factor managed but is not itself an indication for acute IIH therapy.
- 78
Permanent Visual Loss in Cavernous Sinus-Dural Fistula?
- ANeovascular glaucoma
- BCorneal exposure
- COpen-angle glaucoma
- DChoroidal effusions
- EStrabismus
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: C — Open-angle glaucoma
Carotid-cavernous/dural fistulas can cause elevated episcleral venous pressure → impaired aqueous outflow → secondary open-angle glaucoma. This is the leading cause of permanent vision loss.
- 79
Antidote for Edrophonium Overdose?
- AAtropine
- BDantrolene
- CEpinephrine
- DVerapamil
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: A — Atropine
Edrophonium is a short-acting acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. Overdose causes cholinergic excess (bradycardia, bronchospasm, sweating, salivation). Atropine blocks muscarinic effects and is the antidote.
- 80
Feature NOT Seen in Adie's Pupil?
- AVermiform movement of iris border
- BHypersensitivity to parasympathomimetic drugs
- CLight-near dissociation
- DAnisocoria greater in the dark
Show answer and explanationHide answer
Answer: D — Anisocoria greater in the dark
Adie's tonic pupil is larger than the fellow eye and shows light-near dissociation, segmental iris sphincter palsy (vermiform movements), and denervation supersensitivity to dilute pilocarpine. The anisocoria is typically greater in bright light (the Adie's pupil dilates poorly and constricts poorly).
- 81
Bilateral Optic Neuritis with Poor Recovery?
- AMultiple sclerosis
- BNeuromyelitis optica (NMO)
- CGiant cell arteritis
- DFingolimod adverse effect
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Answer: B — Neuromyelitis optica (NMO)
Bilateral, severe optic neuritis with poor visual recovery is classic for NMO (AQP4-IgG) rather than MS. MS-related optic neuritis is usually unilateral and has better recovery.
- 82
Post-Traumatic Headache, Ptosis, and Amaurosis Fugax?
- ACT brain and orbits
- BBilateral carotid Doppler study
- COrbital ultrasound
- DCT angiography (CTA) of the neck
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Answer: D — CT angiography (CTA) of the neck
The triad of post-traumatic headache, partial Horner syndrome (mild ipsilateral ptosis + miosis), and transient monocular vision loss is highly suggestive of carotid artery dissection. CTA/MRA of the neck is the investigation of choice.
- 83
Most Common Cause of Third Nerve Palsy in Children?
- ACongenital
- BTraumatic
- CInflammatory
- DTumor
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Answer: A — Congenital
In children, isolated third nerve palsy is most often congenital. Adults most commonly have microvascular ischemic palsies.
- 84
Most Common Cause of Third Nerve Palsy in Adults?
- AMicrovascular
- BTraumatic
- CAneurysm
- DTumor
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Answer: A — Microvascular
Microvascular ischemia (diabetes, hypertension) is the leading cause of isolated CN III palsy in adults. Aneurysm must be excluded if pupil is involved.
- 85
Timing of Strabismus Surgery in Graves' Ophthalmopathy?
- AOrbital decompression
- BOrbital radiation
- CTarsorrhaphy
- DEyelid surgery
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Answer: D — Eyelid surgery
Surgical sequence in thyroid eye disease: orbital decompression (if needed) → strabismus surgery → eyelid surgery. Strabismus surgery changes eyelid position; therefore eyelid surgery is last.
- 86
Hyphema Without Trauma in an Infant?
- AJuvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG)
- BHerpes simplex uveitis
- CLymphoma
- DRetinoblastoma
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Answer: C — Lymphoma
Non-traumatic hyphema in infants raises concern for JXG (iris lesions bleed), retinoblastoma (iris neovascularization), trauma (abuse), or viral uveitis. Lymphoma is rare in this age group.
- 87
Periorbital Ecchymosis in a 2-Year-Old?
- ANeuroblastoma
- BLeukemia
- CLymphangioma
- DDermoid cyst
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Answer: D — Dermoid cyst
Periorbital ecchymosis ("raccoon eyes") can result from metastatic neuroblastoma, leukemia, orbital lymphangioma, or trauma. Dermoid cyst typically presents as a painless superotemporal mass and does not cause ecchymosis.
- 88
Neuroblastoma Characteristics?
- AMetastasis from adrenal gland
- BPossible spontaneous regression
- CPoor prognosis if diagnosed before 1 year of age
- DPeriorbital ecchymosis
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Answer: C — Poor prognosis if diagnosed before 1 year of age
Neuroblastoma has a better prognosis in infants (<1 year) and can spontaneously regress. Metastasis to the orbit causes periorbital ecchymosis and proptosis.
- 89
Type 2 Duane Retraction Syndrome?
- APoor adduction and exotropia
- BPoor abduction and esotropia
- CPoor abduction and adduction
- DPoor abduction and exotropia
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Answer: A — Poor adduction and exotropia
Duane type 2 = limited adduction with exotropia in primary gaze. Type 1 = limited abduction + esotropia (most common). Type 3 = limitation of both abduction and adduction.
- 90
Best Use of Botulinum Toxin Type A in Strabismus?
- ASmall-angle esotropia
- BLarge-angle exotropia
- CA-pattern esotropia
- DChronic sixth nerve palsy
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Answer: A — Small-angle esotropia
Botulinum toxin is most effective for small-angle, comitant deviations (especially small-angle esotropia and sixth nerve palsy acutely). Large-angle or complex incomitant deviations respond less well.
- 91
Overcorrection After Bilateral Medial Rectus Recession?
- AExtraocular movement examination
- BStereopsis measurement
- CVertical deviation measurement
- DSlit lamp examination
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Answer: A — Extraocular movement examination
Early overcorrection after strabismus surgery requires assessment of ductions to detect a slipped or lost muscle before considering further intervention.
- 92
Spasmus Nutans vs Serious Pathology?
- AOptic nerve meningioma
- BParasellar glioma
- CPontine glioma
- DCerebellar astrocytoma
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Answer: B — Parasellar glioma
Spasmus nutans (nystagmus, head nodding, torticollis) is usually benign. It must be distinguished from optic pathway/chiasmal glioma, which can present similarly and requires neuroimaging.
- 93
Nystagmus Null Point and Prism Correction?
- ABase down both eyes
- BBase in both eyes
- CBase in OD and Base out OS
- DBase out OD and Base in OS
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Answer: C — Base in OD and Base out OS
Prisms shift the image toward the null point, reducing the head turn. Null point in right gaze with left head turn → use BO-OD / BI-OS (prism base direction opposite to head turn) to shift images rightward.
- 94
Initial Management of Accommodative Esotropia with Amblyopia?
- ABimedial recession
- BBilateral resection
- CHyperopic correction with bifocals
- DHyperopic correction + patching of good eye
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Answer: D — Hyperopic correction + patching of good eye
First-line treatment for accommodative esotropia is full cycloplegic hyperopic correction. If amblyopia is present, occlusion therapy of the better-seeing eye is started. Surgery is reserved for non-responders.
- 95
Axenfeld-Rieger Syndrome?
- A50% develop glaucoma
- BAssociated with PITX2 and FOXC1 mutations
- CSystemic abnormalities may occur
- DAutosomal recessive inheritance is most common
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Answer: D — Autosomal recessive inheritance is most common
Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome is autosomal dominant, caused most often by PITX2 or FOXC1 mutations. ~50% develop glaucoma; systemic features include dental, facial, and umbilical anomalies.
- 96
Causes of Heterochromia?
- AHorner syndrome
- BAlbinism
- CJuvenile xanthogranuloma
- DWaardenburg syndrome
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Answer: B — Albinism
Heterochromia can be congenital (Waardenburg, Horner due to sympathetic denervation) or acquired (iris melanoma, JXG, Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis, siderosis). Albinism causes reduced iris pigment but not heterochromia.
- 97
Most Common Ocular Manifestation of Abusive Head Trauma?
- ACorneal abrasion
- BHyphema
- CSubconjunctival hemorrhage
- DRetinal hemorrhage
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Answer: D — Retinal hemorrhage
Retinal hemorrhages (often multilayered, posterior pole, and bilateral) are the most characteristic ocular finding in shaken baby syndrome/abusive head trauma.
- 98
High Crossing Fibers at the Optic Chiasm?
- AOcular albinism
- BOptic nerve hypoplasia
- CAchromatopsia
- DMorning glory disc anomaly
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Answer: A — Ocular albinism
Ocular albinism is associated with misrouting of optic nerve fibers at the chiasm — excessive fibers cross to the contralateral hemisphere. Diagnosed with VEP asymmetry.
- 99
Best Visual Acuity Test for Preliterate Children?
- AHOTV
- BTumbling E
- CAllen Figures
- DLighthouse Chart
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Answer: A — HOTV
HOTV matching or recognition is the preferred standardized test for preschool/preliterate children. Allen figures are less uniform and not as well calibrated.
- 100
Comitant Deviation?
- ANasal wall fracture
- BInfantile esotropia
- CThyroid orbitopathy
- DSixth nerve palsy
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Answer: B — Infantile esotropia
Comitant strabismus = deviation is the same in all gazes (e.g., infantile esotropia). Incomitant deviations vary with gaze (restrictive, paralytic, orbital disease, cranial nerve palsy).
- 101
Strabismus Notation?
- AIntermittent
- BConstant
- CInward
- DOutward
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Answer: A — Intermittent
In clinical notation, "T" = tropia (manifest, constant) and "(T)" or "phoria" indicates intermittent. Often "(T)" denotes intermittent tropia.
- 102
Lateral Muscular Branch of Ophthalmic Artery?
- ASuperior rectus
- BMedial rectus
- CInferior rectus
- DInferior oblique
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Answer: A — Superior rectus
The lateral muscular branch supplies the superior rectus, levator palpebrae superioris, and superior oblique. The inferior muscular branch supplies the medial rectus, inferior rectus, and inferior oblique.
- 103
Surgery for Exotropia with Dense Amblyopia?
- A−1.50 D overminus lenses
- BBase-in prism
- CBilateral rectus recession
- DLeft lateral rectus recession + left medial rectus resection
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Answer: D — Left lateral rectus recession + left medial rectus resection
In unilateral or strongly asymmetric exotropia with one poorly seeing amblyopic eye, surgery on the amblyopic eye alone (unilateral recess-resect) is preferred to preserve the good eye.
- 104
Predictor of Postoperative Diplopia?
- AAge
- BSize of deviation
- CPreoperative prism adaptation testing
- DRefraction
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Answer: C — Preoperative prism adaptation testing
Prism adaptation testing (using Fresnel prisms to preoperatively simulate alignment) helps identify patients at risk for postoperative diplopia and can improve surgical planning.
- 105
Canthal Tendon Avulsion After Periorbital Trauma?
- APulling the eyelid and palpating the insertions of the tendon
- BObserving the contour of the eyelids and the position of the puncta
- CReviewing the medical history and the mechanism of the trauma
- DProbing and irrigating the lacrimal outflow
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Answer: A — Pulling the eyelid and palpating the insertions of the tendon
Physical examination with gentle traction on the eyelid and palpation over the normal insertion sites is the best bedside test for canthal tendon avulsion. Laxity or absence of a firm stop suggests avulsion.
- 106
Ptosis with Lid Lag in Downgaze?
- ACongenital ptosis
- BSuperior orbital mass
- COcular myasthenia
- DDehiscence of the aponeurosis
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Answer: A — Congenital ptosis
Congenital ptosis is characterized by decreased levator function and lid lag in downgaze (the ptotic lid remains higher or fails to descend normally). Aponeurotic ptosis typically worsens in downgaze.
- 107
Ptosis with Dysphagia and Respiratory Symptoms?
- AExternal levator resection
- BElectromyography and edrophonium (Tensilon) testing
- CInternal ptosis repair
- DAnti-acetylcholine receptor antibody testing
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Answer: B — Electromyography and edrophonium (Tensilon) testing
Fluctuating ptosis with systemic bulbar/respiratory symptoms suggests myasthenia gravis. EMG with repetitive nerve stimulation and edrophonium/Tensilon test are key diagnostic steps. Surgery is contraindicated before diagnosis.
- 108
Imaging After Blunt Orbital Trauma?
- ACT scan with contrast
- BMRI
- CCT scan without contrast
- DMRI with contrast
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Answer: C — CT scan without contrast
Non-contrast CT is the first-line imaging for orbital trauma because it best demonstrates bony fractures, orbital wall displacement, and intraorbital hemorrhage. MRI is reserved for soft-tissue/optic nerve evaluation.
- 109
Dermolipoma Excision and Dry Eye?
- ALacrimal gland ductules
- BMeibomian glands
- CGlands of Zeis
- DGlands of Wolfring
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Answer: A — Lacrimal gland ductules
Dermolipomas arise in the superotemporal fornix, close to the palpebral lobe of the lacrimal gland and its ductules. Over-aggressive excision can damage ductules → severe aqueous deficiency dry eye.
- 110
New-Onset Thyroid Eye Disease?
- AEyelid retraction repair
- BOrbital decompression
- CThyroid lab testing
- DStrabismus surgery
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Answer: C — Thyroid lab testing
New-onset thyroid-associated orbitopathy requires biochemical confirmation (TSH, free T4, T3, TSH receptor antibodies) and assessment of disease activity before any surgical intervention.
- 111
Upper Lid Blepharoplasty Landmark?
- AOrbital septum
- BMüller muscle
- CLevator aponeurosis
- DConjunctiva
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Answer: B — Müller muscle
The peripheral arterial arcade runs along the anterior surface of Müller muscle. Encountering it during upper lid surgery indicates the dissection plane is at or just anterior to Müller muscle.
- 112
SOOF Equivalent?
- AOrbital fat
- BSubcutaneous fat
- CRetro-orbicularis oculi fat (ROOF)
- DTemporal fat pad
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Answer: C — Retro-orbicularis oculi fat (ROOF)
SOOF is the inferior (midface) counterpart of ROOF in the upper eyelid/forehead region. Both lie deep to the orbicularis oculi muscle.
- 113
Acute Painful Proptosis in a Child?
- ACavernous hemangioma
- BSinusitis with orbital abscess
- CTraumatic retrobulbar hemorrhage
- DOrbital lymphangioma
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Answer: A — Cavernous hemangioma
Cavernous hemangioma is a slow-growing, painless, adult-onset benign tumor. It does not present with acute painful proptosis. The other options are classic causes of acute pediatric orbital presentation.
- 114
Acute Ecchymosis with Cystic Orbital Lesion?
- ARhabdomyosarcoma
- BCapillary hemangioma
- COrbital abscess
- DLymphangioma
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Answer: D — Lymphangioma
Orbital lymphangioma (lymphatic malformation) is characterized by cystic spaces that undergo spontaneous hemorrhage, producing acute proptosis and ecchymosis. Fluid-fluid levels on MRI are typical.
- 115
Most Common Primary Orbital Malignancy in Children?
- ANeuroblastoma
- BRhabdomyosarcoma
- CEwing sarcoma
- DNone of the above
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Answer: B — Rhabdomyosarcoma
Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common primary malignant orbital tumor in children, usually arising from undifferentiated mesenchymal cells. It presents with rapid-onset proptosis.
- 116
Painless Lacrimal Gland Swelling in Older Adult?
- APrimary lacrimal gland lymphoma
- BPleomorphic adenoma
- CAdenoid cystic carcinoma
- DMalignant pleomorphic adenoma
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Answer: A — Primary lacrimal gland lymphoma
Painless lacrimal gland enlargement in older adults with molding of bone on CT strongly suggests lymphoma. Pleomorphic adenoma typically shows smooth bony remodeling, while carcinomas are more destructive.
- 117
Enophthalmos Without Trauma?
- ACavernous hemangioma
- BMetastatic breast carcinoma in a woman
- COrbital cellulitis
- DAll of the above
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Answer: B — Metastatic breast carcinoma in a woman
Scirrhous metastatic breast carcinoma can cause enophthalmos due to orbital fibrosis and contraction. Cavernous hemangioma and cellulitis typically cause proptosis, not enophthalmos.
- 118
Most Common Cause of Bilateral Adult Exophthalmos?
- ACavernous hemangioma
- BPseudotumor
- CThyroid-related orbitopathy
- DMetastatic disease
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Answer: C — Thyroid-related orbitopathy
Thyroid eye disease is the most common cause of bilateral proptosis in adults, especially women. It is also the leading cause of unilateral or asymmetric exophthalmos.
- 119
Most Common Cause of Unilateral Childhood Exophthalmos?
- ACapillary hemangioma
- BThyroid-related orbitopathy
- COrbital hemorrhage
- DOrbital cellulitis
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Answer: D — Orbital cellulitis
Orbital cellulitis, often secondary to paranasal sinusitis, is the most common cause of unilateral proptosis in children and requires urgent treatment to prevent vision loss and intracranial spread.
- 120
Predisposing Conditions for Mucormycosis?
- ADiabetes
- BRenal disease
- CDehydration
- DAll of the above
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Answer: D — All of the above
Mucormycosis is an aggressive fungal infection seen in immunocompromised and metabolically deranged patients. Risk factors include uncontrolled diabetes (especially diabetic ketoacidosis), renal disease, dehydration, immunosuppression, and iron overload.
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