A patient presents with progressive hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo. Audiometric testing reveals sensorineural hearing loss with a "carrot-shaped" configuration. Which of the following conditions is most likely responsible for this presentation?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Ménière's disease is characterized by the triad of symptoms including progressive sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo. The audiometric testing in Ménière's disease often shows a "carrot-shaped" configuration, which refers to low-frequency hearing loss initially and eventually spreading to involve higher frequencies. This distinctive pattern of hearing loss helps differentiate Ménière's disease from other causes like Presbycusis (age-related hearing loss) or Noise-induced hearing loss. Acoustic neuroma can present with unilateral sensorineural hearing loss but typically does not exhibit the specific "carrot-shaped" configuration seen in Ménière's disease.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The presentation described in the question is classic for anterior uveitis. Anterior uveitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the iris and ciliary body and is characterized by redness, pain, and photophobia. Slit-lamp examination typically reveals ciliary injection (redness around the iris), corneal edema, and a mid-dilated pupil with a fixed reaction to light due to inflammation causing spasm of the iris muscles. Acute angle-closure glaucoma would present with similar symptoms but would also have increased intraocular pressure, which is not mentioned in the presentation. Endophthalmitis is an infection of the intraocular cavities and would typically present with more severe symptoms, such as severe pain, vision loss, and presence of pus in the eye. Corneal abrasion would present with pain, foreign body sensation, and possibly tearing but would not cause ciliary injection or fixed pupil reaction as

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The presentation described in the question is characteristic of anterior uveitis. Anterior uveitis is inflammation of the iris and ciliary body in the eye. Patients typically present with symptoms such as redness, pain, and photophobia. Slit-lamp examination findings include ciliary injection (redness and engorgement of blood vessels in the ciliary body), corneal edema (swelling of the cornea), and a mid-dilated pupil with a fixed reaction to light due to involvement of the iris muscles. These features differentiate anterior uveitis from other conditions. Treatment of anterior uveitis may involve topical steroids and cycloplegics to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The presentation described is consistent with fungal keratitis. Fungal keratitis typically presents with a yellowish-white spot on the cornea, surrounded by a ring of inflammation. The filamentous opacities seen on slit-lamp examination are characteristic of fungal hyphae extending from the corneal lesion. This condition is often associated with risk factors such as trauma with vegetable matter, contact lens wear, or topical corticosteroid use. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with antifungal medications are essential to prevent complications and preserve vision.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A dental abscess is a condition characterized by inflammation and infection of the soft tissues surrounding the apex of a tooth root. This infection can result from untreated dental decay, trauma to the tooth, or periodontal disease. The abscess can cause pain, swelling, redness, and even pus formation. Treatment typically involves draining the abscess, removing the source of infection, and possibly prescribing antibiotics to address the infection. If left untreated, a dental abscess can lead to serious complications and spread to other parts of the body.