Hollenhorst plaque

A Hollenhorst plaque or cholesterol embolus represents an embolus within a retinal vessel that originates from an atheromatous plaque in a more proximal vessel, usually the internal carotid. It is a sign of severe atherosclerosis. These plaques appear bright, refractile, and yellow on opthalmoscopy. The most important step in management is to identify and treat the originating plaque to prevent further embolization.