Differential Diagnosis for Intermittent Unilateral Vision Loss
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Giant Cell Arteritis (Temporal Arteritis): This condition is a common cause of intermittent unilateral vision loss, especially in older adults. It is characterized by inflammation of the medium and large arteries, which can lead to optic nerve ischemia and vision loss.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Carotid Artery Stenosis: Narrowing of the carotid artery can lead to reduced blood flow to the eye, causing intermittent vision loss. This condition is often associated with atherosclerosis.
- Migraine: Some people with migraines may experience visual auras, including unilateral vision loss, which can be intermittent.
- Optic Neuritis: Inflammation of the optic nerve can cause vision loss, which may be intermittent, especially in the early stages of the condition.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Central Retinal Artery Occlusion: This is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to restore vision. It is characterized by sudden, painless, unilateral vision loss.
- Retinal Detachment: Although often associated with sudden vision loss, some cases may present with intermittent symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent vision loss.
- Pituitary Apoplexy: A rare but life-threatening condition that can cause sudden or intermittent vision loss due to hemorrhage or infarction of the pituitary gland.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Susac Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by microangiopathy of the retina, brain, and inner ear, which can cause intermittent vision loss.
- Eale Disease: A rare condition that affects the retinal blood vessels, leading to recurrent retinal and vitreal hemorrhages, which can cause intermittent vision loss.
- Vasculitis (e.g., Wegener's Granulomatosis, Polyarteritis Nodosa): These conditions can cause inflammation of the blood vessels, leading to intermittent vision loss due to reduced blood flow to the eye.