Differential Diagnosis for Vision Loss in Half Eye
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Optic Neuritis: A common cause of unilateral vision loss, often presenting with pain on eye movement and decreased color vision. It is frequently associated with multiple sclerosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Retinal Detachment: A condition where the retina separates from the back of the eye, causing sudden vision loss, often described as a curtain or shadow descending over the field of vision.
- Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO): A blockage of the central retinal artery, leading to sudden, painless loss of vision in one eye.
- Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO): A blockage of the central retinal vein, causing vision loss, which can be gradual or sudden.
- Macular Hole: A small break in the macula, part of the retina, leading to distorted and blurred vision.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Giant Cell Arteritis: An inflammation of the blood vessels, which can lead to sudden, painless vision loss in one eye. If not promptly treated, it can lead to vision loss in the other eye.
- Retinal Tear: A tear in the retina, which can lead to retinal detachment if not treated promptly.
- Ocular Migraine: A condition causing temporary vision loss, often with headache and other neurological symptoms. While usually benign, it can be a symptom of an underlying condition.
Rare Diagnoses
- Choroidal Melanoma: A rare type of eye cancer that can cause vision loss if it grows large enough to press on the retina or optic nerve.
- Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON): A rare inherited condition causing progressive vision loss, typically in young adults.
- Syphilitic Optic Neuritis: A rare cause of vision loss due to syphilis infection, which can be treated with antibiotics if caught early.