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Differential Diagnosis for a 70-year-old Female with Right Sided Vision Loss

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO): Given the patient's age and history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes, CRAO is a likely cause of sudden vision loss. The use of Ozempic (semaglutide) may also increase the risk of thromboembolic events.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Retinal Detachment: This condition can cause sudden vision loss, especially in patients with diabetes. The patient's history of diabetes and age increase the risk.
  • Optic Neuritis: Although less common in this age group, optic neuritis can cause vision loss and is associated with conditions like diabetes.
  • Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA): While GCA is more common in older adults, the patient's age and symptoms of vision loss make it a consideration, especially if there are accompanying symptoms like headache or jaw claudication.
  • Diabetic Retinopathy: Given the patient's diabetes, diabetic retinopathy is a possible cause of vision loss, especially if not well-managed.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Vision loss can be a symptom of a stroke or TIA, particularly if it's accompanied by other neurological deficits. Given the patient's history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes, this is a critical diagnosis not to miss.
  • Pituitary Apoplexy: Although rare, pituitary apoplexy can cause sudden vision loss and is a medical emergency requiring prompt treatment.
  • Carotid Artery Dissection: This condition can lead to vision loss due to decreased blood flow to the eye and is associated with a high risk of stroke.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Ocular Migraine: While migraines can cause visual disturbances, they are less likely to cause permanent vision loss and are not typically associated with the patient's age and medical history.
  • Vitreous Detachment: Posterior vitreous detachment can cause floaters and flashes of light but is less likely to cause sudden, complete vision loss in one eye.
  • Intraocular Tumors: Tumors like melanoma can cause vision loss but are less common and would likely have other accompanying symptoms or signs.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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