Title: Neuro-ophthalmology Illustrated Chapter 6 – Transient Visual Loss 2 — Neuro-Ophthalmology
Headings: Neuro-ophthalmology Illustrated Chapter 6 – Transient Visual Loss 2
Neuro-ophthalmology Illustrated Chapter 6 – Transient Visual Loss 2
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The information below is from Neuro-ophthalmology Illustrated-2nd Edition. Biousse V and Newman NJ. 2012. Thieme
Pearls

Content: Patients with dry eyes often complain of fluctuation of vision, especially while reading. Pearls
Transient visual obscurations (TVOs) are characterized by brief blackouts or “gray-outs” of vision and are precipitated by changes in posture, such as bending over. They usually indicate underlying optic nerve head edema or optic nerve anomalies causing high tissue pressure at the optic nerve head. Although disc edema results from a variety of disorders, the most likely cause of TVOs is papilledema from raised intracranial pressure. 6.2.2 Patient Evaluation
The clinical history and a detailed ocular examination help determine the mechanism of the TMVL. Among the first things to ask the patient about are the onset and duration of TMVL. The answers can help determine the cause. For example, retinal emboli produce a very sudden TMVL, lasting from 1 to 4 minutes. TMVL as a result of ocular hypoperfusion would be progressive, at least 5 to 10 minutes, and be precipitated by standing up or looking at bright lights. Venous congestion causes a progressive loss, lasting at least 10 to 20 minutes.