Optic atrophy: types: practice question

A Ophthalmology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Ophthalmology · Optic atrophy: types

Sample item

Which fundus appearance suggests a consecutive optic atrophy?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Waxy pale disc with attenuated vessels after retinal disease

Consecutive atrophy follows widespread retinal disease such as retinitis pigmentosa or retinal vascular occlusion, giving a waxy pallor and narrowed vessels. Primary atrophy has sharp margins, and secondary atrophy follows disc oedema with blurred margins.

Option by option

  • A. Cupped pale disc

    Cupping suggests glaucomatous atrophy.

  • B. Waxy pale disc with attenuated vessels after retinal disease (correct)

    Correct. Retinal disease causes waxy pallor with thin vessels.

  • C. Pale disc with blurred margins after papilloedema

    This is secondary atrophy.

  • D. Chalky white disc with sharp margins after neuritis

    This is primary atrophy.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Ophthalmology question

What is the answer to this Ophthalmology question?

The best answer is B, Waxy pale disc with attenuated vessels after retinal disease. Consecutive atrophy follows widespread retinal disease such as retinitis pigmentosa or retinal vascular occlusion, giving a waxy pallor and narrowed vessels.

Why is "Cupped pale disc" not the answer?

Cupping suggests glaucomatous atrophy.

Why is "Pale disc with blurred margins after papilloedema" not the answer?

This is secondary atrophy.

Why is "Chalky white disc with sharp margins after neuritis" not the answer?

This is primary atrophy.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Optic atrophy: types in Ophthalmology. Primary atrophy has sharp margins, and secondary atrophy follows disc oedema with blurred margins.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Optic atrophy: types?

Group the red eye by what to examine and what the pupil does. Then use the flashcards and the other Ophthalmology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.