Hypertensive retinopathy is damage to the retina caused by high blood pressure. It is characterized by changes to the retinal blood vessels including arteriolar narrowing, arteriovenous nicking, hemorrhages, cotton wool spots, and in advanced cases, papilledema or macular edema. The risk and severity of retinopathy increases with higher or less controlled blood pressure levels. Treatment involves controlling the underlying hypertension through lifestyle changes and medication, with urgent referral needed for severe or malignant cases. Regular eye exams are important for monitoring hypertensive patients for signs of retinopathy.
22. Hypertensive Retinopathy - Classification <20% Malignant abnormalities encountered in Grades I through III, as well as swelling of the optic nerve head and macular star IV 25% Malignant abnormalities seen in Grades I and II, as well as retinal haemorrhages, hard exudation, and cotton-wool spots III 33% Non-malignant narrowing of the retinal arteries in conjunction with regions of focal narrowing and arterio-venous nipping II 50% Non-malignant minimal narrowing of the retinal arteries I A:V ratio Alternative description Description Grade
