Amaurosis fugax

Amaurosis Fugax

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Diagram of the human eye

Amaurosis fugax is a temporary loss of vision in one eye due to a lack of blood flow to the retina. The term "amaurosis" refers to a darkening, and "fugax" means fleeting, indicating the transient nature of the condition. It is often considered a warning sign of potential stroke or other cerebrovascular disease.

Pathophysiology

Amaurosis fugax occurs when there is a temporary reduction in blood flow to the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye. This reduction is usually caused by an embolism or a thrombus that travels from the carotid artery to the retinal artery. The blockage prevents oxygen and nutrients from reaching the retinal cells, leading to a temporary loss of vision.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of amaurosis fugax is a sudden, painless loss of vision in one eye. This vision loss is often described as a "curtain" or "shade" descending over the field of vision. The episode typically lasts from a few seconds to several minutes, after which normal vision returns. Some patients may also experience photopsia, or flashes of light, during the episode.

Diagnosis

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Anatomy of the eye

Diagnosis of amaurosis fugax involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Ophthalmologists may perform a fundoscopic examination to inspect the retina and optic nerve. Additional tests may include carotid ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scans to assess blood flow and identify potential sources of emboli.

Treatment

The treatment of amaurosis fugax focuses on addressing the underlying cause to prevent future episodes and reduce the risk of stroke. This may involve lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation and dietary changes, as well as medical management with antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications. In some cases, surgical interventions like carotid endarterectomy may be necessary.

Prognosis

While amaurosis fugax itself is not life-threatening, it is a significant risk factor for future ischemic events. Patients who experience amaurosis fugax should be evaluated for atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular risk factors to prevent more serious complications.

Related Pages

• Retinal artery occlusion
• Transient ischemic attack
• Carotid artery stenosis
• Ophthalmology