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Diabetic retinopathy screening — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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EasyAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareDiabetic retinopathy screeningUSMLE Step 3

A 51-year-old man was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 3 months ago. A1c improved from 8.9% to 7.3% on metformin. He has no visual symptoms and has never had a dilated eye examination. Which of the following is the most appropriate screening recommendation?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Refer for comprehensive dilated retinal examination now

Patients with type 2 diabetes need retinal examination at diagnosis because hyperglycemia may have been present for years.

Reference: ADA Standards of Care in Diabetes 2026, https://professional.diabetes.org/standards-of-care