Posterior Segment
Hypertensive Retinopathy
Also known as: hypertensive retinopathy, hypertensive retinal changes, AV nicking, arteriolar narrowing, flame haemorrhages, cotton wool spots, malignant hypertension
Clinical decision support only
OptoGuide™ supports professional judgement and does not diagnose or replace clinician responsibility.
Overview
Hypertensive retinopathy reflects retinal vascular damage related to elevated blood pressure. Mild chronic signs support systemic risk communication; haemorrhages, cotton wool spots, macular involvement, or disc swelling require urgent medical assessment for severe or malignant hypertension.
What OptoGuide™ covers for hypertensive retinopathy
- Recognition patterns — symptoms, signs, and differentiators
- Don't-miss risks and escalation triggers
- Management tiers with linked Australian therapeutics
- Referral urgency, specialty, and letter drafting
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