microaneurysms
Tiny Vessel Bulges
Plain-language definition
The earliest visible sign of diabetic retinopathy - tiny balloon-like outpouchings of weakened retinal capillaries that can leak fluid.
Where this term comes up
“Fundus examination was completely normal, with no cotton wool spots, hemorrhages, or microaneurysms typically associated with HIV retinopathy”
Publication · Bilateral Progressive Vision Loss in Noninfectious HIV Retinopathy without Infectious Retinitis
“Microaneurysms form (tiny bulges in vessel walls)”
Condition · Non-Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR)
“Small areas of balloon-like swelling (microaneurysms)”
Condition · Diabetic Retinopathy
- Category
- Condition, finding, or disease process
- Also written as
- microaneurysm
Pathology terms describe diseases, tissue changes, exam findings, or complications that can affect vision or eye comfort.
Related glossary terms
- hemorrhage
Bleeding
- macula
Central Retina
- exudate
Leaked Protein Deposits
- aflibercept
Eylea (Anti-VEGF)
- anti-VEGF
Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor
- bevacizumab
Avastin (Off-Label Anti-VEGF)
A note on medical context
A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.