What is Hollen Horst Plaques in the right peripheral Retinal Artery?

Question

Dr. says could have caused a stroke if it had gone to the brain instead. Patient is 75 y.o. male diabetic with previous history of stroke, triple A, coronary stent, and two Endartarectomies.

Answer 1

Hollenhorst's plaques are glistening yellow cholesterol emboli within the retinal arterial system.
Hollenhorst plaques occur in about 20% of eyes that have central retinal artery occlusions. They most likely originate from atherosclerotic deposits within the carotid arteries. Interestingly, the central retinal artery itself may have atherosclerotic plaque that may produce emboli.