American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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Study for the ABIM Certification Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each. Get ready to succeed!

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What is the prognosis for endophthalmitis affected by timely treatment?

  1. It depends on the duration of symptoms before treatment

  2. It is always poor regardless of treatment

  3. It is favorable if treatment is started promptly

  4. There is no impact of treatment on prognosis

The correct answer is: It is favorable if treatment is started promptly

The prognosis for endophthalmitis significantly improves when treatment is initiated promptly. This condition, which involves inflammation of the interior of the eye, can lead to severe complications, including vision loss, if not addressed quickly. Timely intervention often includes the use of intravitreal antibiotics, needle aspiration, or vitrectomy, all of which can help mitigate damage to the ocular structures. When treatment is provided early in the course of the disease, the chance of preserving vision is much higher. Delays in treatment can allow for more extensive damage, making recovery much less likely. Therefore, the correct understanding of the prognosis of endophthalmitis is that it is favorable with prompt treatment, underscoring the critical nature of early diagnosis and intervention in achieving better outcomes for patients.