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Central retinal artery occlusion — ABEM Board MCQ

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EasyHead/Neck/ENT/Ophthalmology emergenciesCentral retinal artery occlusionABEM Board

A 73-year-old woman arrives as ESI 3 with painless vision loss in the right eye for 40 minutes. BP 156/88, HR 84. Fundoscopy shows a pale retina with a cherry-red spot. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Central retinal artery occlusion

Sudden painless monocular vision loss with cherry-red spot is classic for central retinal artery occlusion and should prompt stroke-style evaluation.

Reference: AAO Preferred Practice Pattern; AHA/ASA scientific statement on CRAO