Differential Diagnosis for Right Eye Vision Loss for 10 Minutes
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA) or amaurosis fugax: This condition is characterized by a temporary loss of vision in one eye due to a temporary lack of blood flow to the retina. The symptoms are transient, lasting from a few seconds to minutes, which aligns with the 10-minute vision loss described.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Migraine with aura: Some people experience visual auras before a migraine, which can include temporary blindness or vision loss in one eye. These symptoms are usually reversible and can last from a few minutes to an hour.
- Optic neuritis: This is an inflammation of the optic nerve that can cause vision loss, which may be temporary. It often presents with pain on eye movement and can be associated with multiple sclerosis.
- Retinal detachment: Although typically more prolonged, a retinal detachment can cause sudden vision loss. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its urgency for treatment.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Stroke: While less common than TIA, a stroke affecting the visual pathway can cause sudden vision loss. Prompt recognition and treatment are critical to minimize brain damage.
- Giant cell arteritis: This condition can cause sudden, painless vision loss in one eye and is a medical emergency. It requires immediate treatment with corticosteroids to prevent further vision loss.
- Central retinal artery occlusion: This is a blockage of the central retinal artery, leading to sudden and severe vision loss in one eye. It is an ophthalmologic emergency requiring immediate treatment.
- Rare diagnoses
- Ocular migraine without headache: A rare condition where the visual symptoms of a migraine occur without the headache, potentially causing temporary vision loss.
- Susac syndrome: A rare condition characterized by small vessel occlusions affecting the brain, retina, and inner ear, leading to vision loss among other symptoms.
- Intraocular or orbital tumors: Although rare, tumors within or around the eye can cause vision loss by compressing or invading the optic nerve or other structures critical for vision.