A 52-year-old male presents with sudden onset of painless visual loss in the lower half of his right visual field. He describes it like a curtain risi...

Question

A 52-year-old male presents with sudden onset of painless visual loss in the lower half of his right visual field. He describes it like a curtain rising from below. He has a history of giant cell arteritis diagnosed 2 months ago. What is the most likely cause and what urgent investigation/treatment is required?

Accepted Answer

Anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (AION) secondary to GCA - urgent high-dose IV methylprednisolone to prevent contralateral eye involvement

Answer

Central retinal vein occlusion - no urgent treatment available

Answer

Retinal detachment - urgent surgical repair

Answer

Optic neuritis - MRI brain

Answer

Vitreous haemorrhage - observe and refer

uk-dipimc MCQ (SBA): GCA and Visual Loss