A 70–year–old man presents with deterioration of vision 3 weeks after cataract extraction and IOL implantation. Slit lamp examination shows honeycomb maculopathy and Fluorescein angiography (FA) shows ‘flower petal’ hyperfluorescence. The most likely diagnosis is –

**Core Concept**
Cystoid macular edema (CME) is a common complication after cataract surgery, characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the macula, leading to vision impairment. It is often associated with inflammation, ischemia, and disruption of the blood-retinal barrier.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The clinical presentation of honeycomb maculopathy on slit lamp examination, combined with 'flower petal' hyperfluorescence on Fluorescein angiography, is highly suggestive of CME. The 'flower petal' pattern is a classic angiographic finding in CME, resulting from the leakage of fluorescein dye from the cystic spaces in the macula. The pathophysiology of CME involves the breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier, allowing fluid to accumulate in the macula.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Uveitis is an inflammatory condition that can cause vision loss, but it typically presents with anterior chamber inflammation, not honeycomb maculopathy or 'flower petal' hyperfluorescence.
**Option B:** Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in the elderly, but it typically presents with atrophic or exudative changes in the macula, not CME.
**Option C:** Diabetic retinopathy can cause macular edema, but it is typically associated with retinal hemorrhages, microaneurysms, and hard exudates, not honeycomb maculopathy or 'flower petal' hyperfluorescence.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
CME is a common complication of cataract surgery, and early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve visual outcomes. Fluorescein angiography is a valuable diagnostic tool in CME, and the 'flower petal' pattern is a key angiographic finding.

**Correct Answer:** C. Cystoid macular edema.

✓ Correct Answer: D. Cystoid Macular Edema