Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which finding is commonly associated with diabetic retinopathy?

1. AV nicking

2. Copper wire arterioles

3. Flame hemorrhages

4. Microaneurysms

The correct answer is: Microaneurysms

Microaneurysms are small, localized dilations of the retinal capillaries and are considered one of the earliest signs of diabetic retinopathy. They occur due to the changes in the retinal blood vessels caused by chronic hyperglycemia, leading to increased vascular permeability. The presence of microaneurysms is crucial in diagnosing diabetic retinopathy, as they can precede more severe changes in the retina, such as hemorrhages and neovascularization. In the context of diabetic retinopathy, recognizing microaneurysms during an eye examination can prompt further evaluation and management of a patient’s diabetes to prevent progression of the disease. This finding is not only a hallmark sign but also essential for monitoring the progression of diabetic eye disease over time. In contrast, AV nicking and copper wire arterioles are changes associated with chronic hypertension rather than diabetes. Flame hemorrhages, while they can occur in diabetic retinopathy, are more characteristic of later stages and suggest more severe retinal damage. Thus, microaneurysms distinctly represent the initial alteration seen in diabetic retinopathy and are integral to its identification and management.