National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) DOT Practice Exam

Which symptom is least likely to be associated with glaucoma?

1. Loss of peripheral vision

2. Halos around lights

3. Blind spots in central vision

4. Red or irritated eyes

The correct answer is: Blind spots in central vision

The symptom most commonly associated with glaucoma is a gradual loss of peripheral vision, often termed "tunnel vision," which can lead to significant visual impairment if left untreated. Halos around lights are also frequently experienced by individuals with glaucoma, particularly in cases where intraocular pressure is elevated. In contrast, blind spots in central vision are not typically indicative of glaucoma but are more associated with other ocular conditions, such as macular degeneration or retinal detachment. Glaucoma primarily affects the peripheral fields first, while central vision usually remains intact until the late stages of the disease. Red or irritated eyes can be symptomatic of a range of eye issues, including infections or allergies, but they are not specific indicators of glaucoma. Thus, the presence of blind spots in central vision is least likely to be associated with glaucoma, making it the correct response in this context.