Persistent Primary Hyperplastic Vitreous (PHPV) is associated with:
**Core Concept**
Persistent Primary Hyperplastic Vitreous (PHPV) is a congenital anomaly characterized by the abnormal persistence of the embryonic vitreous and the retrolental mesenchyme. This condition leads to the formation of a cataractous lens and a retrolental mass, resulting in visual impairment.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The association between PHPV and microphthalmia lies in the embryological development of the eye. During embryogenesis, the primary vitreous and the retrolental mesenchyme regress and are replaced by the secondary vitreous. In PHPV, this regression fails to occur, leading to the persistence of these structures. This persistence can cause the eye to become smaller (microphthalmia), resulting in a range of ocular abnormalities.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not directly related to PHPV. While retinoblastoma is a congenital tumor of the eye, it is not typically associated with PHPV.
**Option B:** Congenital cataracts can occur independently of PHPV and are not the primary characteristic of this condition.
**Option C:** This option is not a recognized association with PHPV. While ocular coloboma can occur in conjunction with PHPV, it is not a direct result of the condition.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
PHPV is often associated with other congenital anomalies, such as microphthalmia, coloboma, and retinal dysplasia. A high index of suspicion for PHPV should be maintained in cases of congenital cataract or ocular abnormalities.
**Correct Answer: C. Microphthalmia**