On spectral-domain OCT of the macula, a patient with diabetic macular edema shows hyporeflective intraretinal spaces bounded by hyperreflective septa in the outer nuclear and outer plexiform layers. This finding is most characteristic of:

• A Subretinal fluid accumulation
• B Lamellar macular hole
• C Vitreomacular traction
• D Cystoid macular edema ✓

Explanation

Cystoid macular edema on OCT appears as hyporeflective cystoid spaces separated by hyperreflective septa, typically located in the outer nuclear and outer plexiform layers. Subretinal fluid accumulates in the subretinal space below the neurosensory retina. Vitreomacular traction shows vitreous attachment distorting the foveal contour. A lamellar macular hole demonstrates a partial-thickness foveal defect with an intact photoreceptor layer.

Reference: Ryan's Retina, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.