Purtscher's retinopathy is linked to which type of trauma and what retinal findings are typically observed?

• A. Penetrating ocular trauma; corneal edema and iris neovascularization
• B. Blunt facial trauma; macular edema alone
• C. Acute chest compression trauma; diffuse retinal hemorrhages, exudates, and cotton wool spots
• D. Thermal injury; conjunctival scarring and keratopathy

Answer: (C)

Purtscher's retinopathy is a retinal microvascular complication that follows blunt trauma, most classically acute chest compression. The retinal appearance reflects ischemia from occlusion of small arterioles, so you see widespread hemorrhages, lipid exudates, and cotton-wool spots. Purtscher flecken—polygonal areas of white retinal whitening—may also be present and are highly suggestive. Macular involvement is common and vision can be reduced, though some recovery may occur as edema resolves. The described combination of trauma type and the diffuse hemorrhages, exudates, and cotton-wool spots fits Purtscher's retinopathy best.