Sudden loss of vision Flashcards
What does transient monocular visual loss (TMVL) describe?
A sudden, transient loss of vision that lasts less than 24 hours.
What are the most common causes of sudden painless loss of vision?
- Ischaemic/vascular (e.g. thrombosis, embolism, temporal arteritis)
- Vitreous haemorrhage
- Retinal detachment
- Retinal migraine
What is another term often used for ischaemic/vascular causes of vision loss?
‘Amaurosis fugax’.
What are the recognized syndromes associated with ischaemic/vascular causes?
- Occlusion of central retinal vein
- Occlusion of central retinal artery
What should be given to treat ischaemic/vascular vision loss, similar to TIA?
Aspirin 300mg.
What visual defect is often seen in ischaemic optic neuropathy?
Altitudinal field defects, described as ‘curtain coming down’.
What is the incidence trend of central retinal vein occlusion?
Increases with age and is more common than arterial occlusion.
What are common causes of central retinal vein occlusion?
- Glaucoma
- Polycythaemia
- Hypertension
What features are usually seen on fundoscopy in central retinal vein occlusion?
Severe retinal haemorrhages.
What is the primary cause of central retinal artery occlusion?
Thromboembolism (from atherosclerosis) or arteritis (e.g. temporal arteritis).
What are the features of central retinal artery occlusion?
- Afferent pupillary defect
- ‘Cherry red’ spot on a pale retina
What are the causes of vitreous haemorrhage?
- Diabetes
- Bleeding disorders
- Anticoagulants
What features may indicate vitreous haemorrhage?
- Sudden visual loss
- Dark spots
What symptoms may precede retinal detachment?
- Flashes of light
- Floaters
What are the distinguishing features of posterior vitreous detachment?
- Flashes of light (photopsia) in the peripheral field
- Floaters, often on the temporal side of the central vision
