What describes ghost vessels?

What describes ghost vessels?

• A. Ghost vessels (non-branching linear pattern)
• B. Branching networks with arcade involvement
• C. Arteriolar invasion
• D. Limbal capillary occlusion

Answer: (A)

Ghost vessels are remnants of prior corneal neovascularization that no longer carry blood. On exam they show up as fine, pale, linear strands that run without branching—a non-branching pattern. This lack of perfusion and simplicity in shape distinguishes them from active vessels, which form branching networks and arcade-like loops as new vessels grow. The other descriptions describe ongoing invasion (arteriolar invasion) or a different vascular change at the limbus (limbal capillary occlusion), not residual, non-perfused vessels in the cornea. So the non-branching linear pattern best fits ghost vessels.

Ghost vessels are remnants of prior corneal neovascularization that no longer carry blood. On exam they show up as fine, pale, linear strands that run without branching—a non-branching pattern. This lack of perfusion and simplicity in shape distinguishes them from active vessels, which form branching networks and arcade-like loops as new vessels grow. The other descriptions describe ongoing invasion (arteriolar invasion) or a different vascular change at the limbus (limbal capillary occlusion), not residual, non-perfused vessels in the cornea. So the non-branching linear pattern best fits ghost vessels.