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The pupil in stroke.
Summary
Anisocoria, or unequal pupil sizes, was studied in 100 intensive care stroke unit patients. The incidence of anisocoria in stroke patients was similar to the general population, offering limited diagnostic value.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Anisocoria, the unequal size of pupils, can be a sign of neurological conditions.
- Its diagnostic utility in acute stroke settings requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of anisocoria in patients admitted to an intensive care stroke unit.
- To assess if anisocoria can aid in the diagnosis of stroke.
Main Methods:
- Pupil diameters were measured from photographs in 100 intensive care stroke unit patients.
- Clinical information was compiled and analyzed by neurology staff.
Main Results:
- 19 out of 100 patients (19%) presented with anisocoria.
- 13 of these 19 patients were diagnosed with stroke.
- The incidence of anisocoria in this stroke cohort (16%) was comparable to the normal population (20%).
- Mydriasis laterality correlated with lesion site only in brainstem infarction cases, where ipsilateral Horner's syndrome was observed.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of anisocoria in intensive care stroke unit patients is similar to the general population.
- Anisocoria alone has limited diagnostic value for stroke, except in specific cases like brainstem infarction with ipsilateral Horner's syndrome.