Which condition can hypopyon be a symptom of?

Hypopyon is the accumulation of pus in the anterior chamber of the eye and can indicate various ocular conditions, primarily those associated with inflammation or infection. When considering the options, a corneal ulcer is a condition where the cornea is damaged, often due to infection. This infection can lead to significant inflammation and the subsequent formation of hypopyon as the body responds to the infection.

In the case of a corneal ulcer, the infected area can allow for the entry of pathogens, prompting the immune system to react, which may result in pus formation that settles in the anterior chamber. Therefore, the presence of hypopyon is a significant clinical finding that alerts healthcare providers to the underlying infection associated with corneal ulcers, which require prompt medical treatment to prevent complications, such as vision loss.

The other conditions listed do not typically manifest with hypopyon. Cataracts involve the clouding of the lens and are not associated with pus formation. Glaucoma is characterized by increased intraocular pressure but does not produce hypopyon. Macular degeneration affects the retina and vision directly but does not lead to pus accumulation in the anterior chamber. Hence, hypopyon is most appropriately linked to corneal ulcers, making it the relevant condition in this context