American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What is the leading cause of blindness in older patients?

1. Diabetic retinopathy

2. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

3. Glaucoma

4. Cataracts

The correct answer is: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in older patients primarily due to its impact on the central vision, which is critical for tasks such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces. AMD occurs as a result of damage to the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. As people age, the risk of developing AMD increases significantly, affecting a large portion of the elderly population. The importance of detecting and managing AMD is underscored by the fact that it can lead to severe visual impairment and decreased quality of life. While conditions like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts can also lead to vision loss in older adults, they do not surpass the prevalence and impact of AMD as a cause of blindness. Diabetic retinopathy is particularly associated with individuals who have diabetes, and glaucoma, while a serious eye condition, is often manageable with treatment. Cataracts are very common and can lead to blurry vision, but they are typically treatable with surgery, making them less of a leading cause of blindness compared to AMD. Thus, AMD remains a critical focus in geriatric eye care due to its significant role in affecting vision among this age group.