Transient Vision Loss

Transient vision loss is common and often results from a transient loss of blood supply to the afferent visual system, although there are many other potential causes. In this chapter, we begin by listing the common causes of transient vision loss. We next discuss the approach to transient vision loss. We emphasize the importance of the history, since physical examination and workup may be unrevealing. We then review the diagnostic evaluation, with a focus on investigations for transient vision loss that is vascular in etiology. Lastly, we discuss the management approach for patients with a cardiac source of embolism or internal carotid artery stenosis.