A patient with ankylosing spondylitis has a painful red eye with photophobia and a ciliary flush. What is the diagnosis and the treatment?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Acute anterior uveitis, treated with topical steroid and a cycloplegic
- Step 1: Photophobia and a ciliary flush point to inflammation in the anterior uveal tract and HLA-B27 is the link. Step 2. Treatment is urgent ophthalmology with steroids to reduce inflammation and cycloplegics for comfort. Answer: Acute anterior uveitis, treated with topical steroid and a cycloplegic. Why not the others: Conjunctivitis lacks photophobia and ciliary flush. Herpes keratitis needs antivirals. Episcleritis is mild and self-limiting.
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