What characterizes nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy on exam?

• A. Microaneurysms, dot-blot hemorrhages, hard exudates, and cotton-wool spots; venous dilation
• B. Neovascularization
• C. Retinal detachment
• D. Macular edema only

Answer: (A)

Nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy is defined by microvascular changes in the retina without new vessel growth. On exam you typically see microaneurysms, dot-blot hemorrhages, hard exudates, cotton-wool spots, and venous dilation, all reflecting capillary leakage and retinal ischemia. Neovascularization indicates progression to proliferative disease and is not a feature of NPDR. Macular edema can occur with NPDR but isn’t the defining finding.