Anisocoria

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Anisocoria
Anisocoria in a patient
Synonyms N/A
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Unequal pupil sizes
Complications May indicate serious underlying conditions
Onset Can be sudden or gradual
Duration Varies depending on cause
Types N/A
Causes Physiological anisocoria, Horner's syndrome, Adie syndrome, Third nerve palsy, Trauma, Medication
Risks Head injury, Stroke, Brain tumor, Aneurysm
Diagnosis Physical examination, Neurological examination, Imaging studies
Differential diagnosis Horner's syndrome, Adie syndrome, Third nerve palsy
Prevention N/A
Treatment Depends on underlying cause
Medication N/A
Prognosis Varies; benign in physiological cases, serious if due to neurological causes
Frequency Common (physiological anisocoria)
Deaths N/A


Anisocoria is a condition characterized by an unequal size of the pupils. It is a common condition, occurring in approximately 20% of the population. Anisocoria can be a benign finding or a sign of more serious medical conditions.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Anisocoria can result from a variety of causes, which can be broadly categorized into physiological and pathological causes.

Physiological Anisocoria[edit | edit source]

Physiological anisocoria is a benign condition where the difference in pupil size is usually less than 1 mm and does not change with different lighting conditions. It is often idiopathic and does not require treatment.

Pathological Anisocoria[edit | edit source]

Pathological anisocoria can be due to:

  • Horner's syndrome: A condition caused by disruption of the sympathetic nerves supplying the eye, leading to ptosis, miosis, and anhidrosis.
  • Adie's tonic pupil: A neurological disorder where one pupil is larger than normal and reacts slowly to light.
  • Third nerve palsy: A condition affecting the third cranial nerve, leading to ptosis, "down and out" eye position, and pupil dilation.
  • Iritis or uveitis: Inflammation of the iris or uveal tract can cause anisocoria due to irregular pupil shape or size.
  • Pharmacological agents: Certain medications or drugs can cause anisocoria by affecting the muscles of the iris.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of anisocoria involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Key steps include:

  • Observation in different lighting conditions: To determine if the anisocoria is more pronounced in bright or dim light.
  • Slit-lamp examination: To assess the anterior segment of the eye for any abnormalities.
  • Neurological examination: To check for any associated neurological signs that might indicate a more serious underlying condition.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of anisocoria depends on the underlying cause. Physiological anisocoria does not require treatment. Pathological anisocoria requires addressing the underlying condition, which may involve:

  • Medications: For conditions like uveitis or iritis.
  • Surgery: In cases of structural abnormalities or tumors.
  • Observation: In cases where the cause is benign and self-limiting.

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD