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.