Which fundoscopic finding is seen in malignant hypertensive retinopathy?

Which fundoscopic finding is seen in malignant hypertensive retinopathy?

• A. Papilledema
• B. Retinal detachment
• C. Drusen
• D. Macular edema

Answer: (A)

Optic disc edema (papilledema) is the hallmark fundoscopic finding in malignant hypertensive retinopathy. Extremely high blood pressure damages the retinal vasculature and disrupts the blood-retinal barrier, leading to leakage and swelling at the optic nerve head. This edema reflects acute end-organ injury from a hypertensive crisis and is accompanied by other signs like retinal hemorrhages and cotton-wool spots, but papilledema specifically points to the severe, life-threatening hypertension. Retinal detachment, drusen, and macular edema describe other eye conditions or less specific findings and do not characterize malignant hypertensive retinopathy.

Optic disc edema (papilledema) is the hallmark fundoscopic finding in malignant hypertensive retinopathy. Extremely high blood pressure damages the retinal vasculature and disrupts the blood-retinal barrier, leading to leakage and swelling at the optic nerve head. This edema reflects acute end-organ injury from a hypertensive crisis and is accompanied by other signs like retinal hemorrhages and cotton-wool spots, but papilledema specifically points to the severe, life-threatening hypertension. Retinal detachment, drusen, and macular edema describe other eye conditions or less specific findings and do not characterize malignant hypertensive retinopathy.