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Superior quadrant visual field loss secondary to temporoparietal craniectomy for brain abscess
G A Nelson1, J C Townsend, P F Ilsen
1Southern California College of Optometry, Fullerton 92631.
Background:
Visual field defects occur from a variety of causes. As a result, the differential diagnosis of visual field defects and their etiology is important.
Methods:
A 64-year old white male was examined in follow up related to the surgical removal of a right temporal lobe abscess secondary to a childhood right side mastoidectomy. The patient underwent ophthalmic examination, which suggested possible changes in his field of vision, and neurobehavioral evaluation related to his visual field defect, a left homonymous superior quadrant defect.
Results:
Computed tomography (CT) scan of the head without contrast enhancement confirmed the ophthalmic diagnosis and correlated with the patient's medical history. However, neurobehavioral evaluation revealed a number of deficits that were believed to be associated with alcohol abuse.
Conclusions:
Visual field loss with changing vision symptoms and a complex history can confound the differential diagnosis of visual field defects. Frequently careful and complete evaluation can confirm and reveal subsequent diagnoses.