Which condition is defined as an accumulation of blood in the anterior chamber of the eye following blunt trauma?

Which condition is defined as an accumulation of blood in the anterior chamber of the eye following blunt trauma?

• A. Corneal abrasion
• B. Hordeolum
• C. Hyphema
• D. Retinal detachment

Answer: (C)

Hyphema is the accumulation of blood in the anterior chamber after blunt trauma. This happens when blunt force tears vessels in the iris or ciliary body, allowing blood to pool in the space between the cornea and the iris. The blood in the front part of the eye can raise intraocular pressure and may lead to complications, so it requires prompt evaluation by an eye care professional. In athletic settings, protect the eye with a shield and limit activities that could worsen bleeding, and monitor for changes in vision. Corneal abrasion is a surface scratch of the cornea and presents with pain and tearing but not blood in the anterior chamber. A hordeolum is a stye on the eyelid and involves eyelid tissue, not intraocular bleeding. Retinal detachment involves the retina and presents with symptoms like flashes of light, floaters, or a curtain-like loss of vision, not blood in the front of the eye.

Hyphema is the accumulation of blood in the anterior chamber after blunt trauma. This happens when blunt force tears vessels in the iris or ciliary body, allowing blood to pool in the space between the cornea and the iris. The blood in the front part of the eye can raise intraocular pressure and may lead to complications, so it requires prompt evaluation by an eye care professional. In athletic settings, protect the eye with a shield and limit activities that could worsen bleeding, and monitor for changes in vision.

Corneal abrasion is a surface scratch of the cornea and presents with pain and tearing but not blood in the anterior chamber. A hordeolum is a stye on the eyelid and involves eyelid tissue, not intraocular bleeding. Retinal detachment involves the retina and presents with symptoms like flashes of light, floaters, or a curtain-like loss of vision, not blood in the front of the eye.