skip to main content

Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum — SCE Dermatology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardConnective Tissue & VasculitisPseudoxanthoma ElasticumSCE Dermatology

A patient with pseudoxanthoma elasticum reports new metamorphopsia. OCT shows subretinal fluid and angiography confirms macular neovascularization arising beside an angioid streak. What is the disease-specific next treatment?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: CUrgent retina review for intravitreal anti-VEGF treatment

Explanation lettering: D = shown as A · C = shown as B · A = shown as C · E = shown as D · B = shown as E

A is correct. Loss of vision in PXE is commonly driven by macular neovascularization at breaks in calcified Bruch membrane. GeneReviews recommends retina-specialist management with intraocular anti-angiogenic treatment when neovascularization is present. Angioid streaks alone are observed, but new metamorphopsia plus fluid and angiographic leakage marks an active sight-threatening complication. Panretinal laser treats retinal ischaemic neovascularization, not this subretinal process. Acetazolamide and systemic bisphosphonate do not reverse the inherited ABCC6 defect. Patients also need vascular-risk management and counselling about gastrointestinal bleeding risk.

Reference: GeneReviews: pseudoxanthoma elasticum: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK1113/