A 24 year old smoker is diagnosed of having Eales disease. It is characterized by all of the following, EXCEPT:
**Core Concept**
Eales disease is a rare idiopathic inflammatory condition affecting the retinal vasculature, leading to recurrent vitreous hemorrhages and retinal ischemia. It is more common in young males with a history of smoking.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Eales disease is characterized by non-granulomatous panuveitis, retinal periphlebitis, and recurrent vitreous hemorrhages. The pathophysiology involves inflammation of the retinal veins, which can lead to thrombosis and subsequent ischemia. This condition often presents with a history of smoking, which may contribute to the development of the disease.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect because Eales disease is indeed characterized by recurrent vitreous hemorrhages, which are a hallmark of the condition.
**Option B:** Incorrect because Eales disease often presents with signs of non-granulomatous panuveitis, which is a key feature of the disease.
**Option C:** Incorrect because retinal periphlebitis is a characteristic finding in Eales disease, involving inflammation of the retinal veins.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Eales disease is a rare condition that often presents in young smokers, and its diagnosis can be challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms. A thorough ophthalmological examination and imaging studies are essential for making a definitive diagnosis.
**Correct Answer: D.**