Most common cause of neovascular glaucoma –
**Question:** Most common cause of neovascular glaucoma -
A. Diabetes mellitus
B. Uveitis
C. Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
D. Trauma
**Correct Answer:** C. Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
**Core Concept:** Neovascular glaucoma is a type of secondary open-angle glaucoma caused by the formation of new blood vessels in the angle of the eye. Neovascularization can occur in response to various ocular or systemic conditions.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common cause of neovascular glaucoma. In AMD, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells release factors that stimulate the growth of abnormal blood vessels, leading to neovascularization in the angle of the eye and subsequent glaucoma. These blood vessels can obstruct the flow of aqueous humor, increasing intraocular pressure and damaging the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common cause of neovascularization, but the most common cause of neovascular glaucoma is not related to DM. In DM, neovascularization is more likely to affect the retina, leading to diabetic retinopathy, rather than the angle of the eye.
B. Uveitis (inflammatory disorders affecting the uvea) can cause neovascularization, but it is a less common cause of neovascular glaucoma compared to neovascular AMD. Uveitis primarily affects the retina and choroid, leading to retinal neovascularization.
D. Trauma can cause neovascularization, but it is less common than AMD as a cause of neovascular glaucoma. Traumatic neovascularization is more likely to be seen in cases of hyphema, hypotony, or iris trauma, which does not directly involve the angle of the eye.
**Clinical Pearl:** Neovascular glaucoma is a serious condition requiring prompt diagnosis and management to prevent severe vision loss. It is essential to differentiate between the various causes and understand the pathophysiology of neovascularization to provide appropriate treatment options.