When examining vessels of the eye, which statement is correct?

• A. Arteries smaller than veins
• B. Veins smaller than arteries
• C. Arteries are dark red.
• D. Arteries pulsate.

Answer: (A)

Arteries are smaller in diameter than veins in the retina. This size difference reflects their roles and structure: retinal arteries have thicker muscular walls to regulate blood flow into the delicate neural tissue, while retinal veins have thinner walls and serve as drainage pathways, resulting in a larger caliber. On fundoscopic exam, arteries appear narrower and brighter red due to the oxygenated blood and strong light reflex, whereas veins look wider and darker red. The statement about arteries pulsating isn’t a general rule seen in a normal exam, so it’s not used to distinguish these vessels.