National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Practice Test

Painless, blurred vision coupled with flashes of light is most characteristic of which condition?

1. Cataracts

2. Retinal detachment

3. Glaucoma

4. Macular degeneration

The correct answer is: Retinal detachment

Painless, blurred vision accompanied by flashes of light is a hallmark symptom of retinal detachment. This condition occurs when the retina peels away from its underlying layer, leading to sudden visual disturbances. The flashes of light are believed to be caused by the retina being stimulated as it is being pulled or detached, which can often signal a medical emergency requiring prompt treatment to prevent permanent vision loss. In contrast, cataracts typically involve gradual clouding of the lens of the eye, leading to blurred vision but not the flashes of light or abrupt changes noted in retinal detachment. Glaucoma, while it can also cause visual disturbances, usually presents with other signs such as increased intraocular pressure and may not manifest with flashes. Macular degeneration primarily affects central vision but does not commonly present with the acute symptoms of flashes of light or sudden vision changes associated with retinal detachment. Thus, the combination of painless blurred vision and flashes strongly indicates retinal detachment as the correct diagnosis.