American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Which symptoms are commonly associated with uveitis?

1. Unilateral eye pain and photophobia

2. Hyperemia and diplopia

3. Pruritus and lacrimation

4. Purulent discharge and eye swelling

The correct answer is: Unilateral eye pain and photophobia

Uveitis is characterized by inflammation of the uveal tract, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. The symptoms commonly associated with this condition include unilateral eye pain and photophobia. Unilateral eye pain occurs because the inflamed tissues in the eye can become irritated and sensitive, leading to discomfort that is often worse with movement of the eye. Photophobia, or sensitivity to light, is also prevalent due to the inflammation affecting the iris and the ability to constrict in bright light, which can increase pain and discomfort. In contrast, symptoms such as hyperemia (redness of the eye) and diplopia (double vision) may be present in some cases but are not as definitive for uveitis. Pruritus (itching) and lacrimation (tearing) are typically associated with allergies or conjunctivitis rather than uveitis. Similarly, purulent discharge and eye swelling are more characteristic of bacterial conjunctivitis rather than uveitis, as uveitis usually does not present with discharge.