Which structure is inflamed in serpiginous choroiditis, and what is its characteristic pattern of progression?
- A Choriocapillaris and inner choroid, spreading centrifugally from the peripapillary area as geographic extensions ✓
- B Retinal pigment epithelium only, spreading from the macula in radial streaks
- C Outer retina, spreading as multiple random punched-out lesions throughout the fundus
- D Optic nerve head, spreading as sectoral wedge defects
Correct answer: A. Choriocapillaris and inner choroid, spreading centrifugally from the peripapillary area as geographic extensions
Explanation
Serpiginous choroiditis is a chronic recurrent inflammation of the choriocapillaris and inner choroid that begins as grey-white lesions around the optic disc and creeps outward in a snake-like geographic pattern, leaving scalloped atrophic scars. It is frequently linked with tuberculosis in India, where tubercular aetiology is conventionally emphasised. Punched-out scattered lesions suggest histoplasmosis or multifocal choroiditis, and sectoral wedge patterns belong to ischaemic optic neuropathy.
Reference: Parsons' Diseases of the Eye, 23rd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.