Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

Vitelliform dystrophy is commonly known as?

1. Usher's syndrome

2. Best's disease

3. Choroideremia

4. Retinitis pigmentosa

The correct answer is: Best's disease

Vitelliform dystrophy is commonly known as Best's disease. This hereditary eye condition affects the macula, which is responsible for central vision. Best's disease is characterized by the accumulation of lipofuscin, a yellowish pigment, in the retinal pigment epithelium. Over time, this can lead to vision changes, including reduced visual acuity and possible central scotomas. The condition is named after Franz Best, who first described it in 1905. It typically has an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern and presents in childhood or early adulthood, often with a characteristic vitelliform (yellow, egg yolk-like) lesion visible on fundoscopic examination. Understanding this condition is important for ophthalmic professionals, as early diagnosis and management can help monitor vision changes and provide appropriate interventions as needed.