29th April 2024

A 72-year-old man with a history of hypercholesterolemia and smoking suddenly loses vision in his left eye.

A 72-year-old man with a history of hypercholesterolemia and smoking suddenly loses vision in his left eye. He describes it as a sudden blackout, occurring without pain. On examination, his left eye has no perception of light. Fundoscopy reveals a pale retina with a distinct cherry-red spot at the macula. 

Which is the most likely diagnosis?