In intermediate uveitis (pars planitis), the snowbank exudate along the inferior ora serrata is composed primarily of:
- A Condensed vitreous collagen fibrils and inflammatory cells
- B Fibrovascular proliferative tissue on the vitreous base ✓
- C Chorioretinal granulomatous deposits
- D RPE metaplasia extending anteriorly
Correct answer: B. Fibrovascular proliferative tissue on the vitreous base
Explanation
In pars planitis, the pathognomonic 'snowbank' is a fibrovascular proliferative membrane forming along the inferior vitreous base and pars plana. It represents organized fibrovascular tissue arising from the non-pigmented ciliary epithelium in response to chronic inflammation, not simply condensed vitreous. This is distinct from 'snowballs,' which are vitreous cell aggregates. The snowbank has surgical and prognostic significance as it can cause tractional RD and neovascularization; it responds to cryotherapy or vitrectomy when medical management fails.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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