Adie's pupil, also known as tonic pupil, is a type of mydriasis (pupil dilation) that can occur due to a lesion in the postganglionic parasympathetic fibers of the oculomotor nerve. It is named after the British neurologist William John Adie, who first described the condition in 1931.
Diagnosis of Adie's Pupil
Adie's pupil is diagnosed through a physical examination of the eyes, including a thorough evaluation of the size and response of the pupils to light. The doctor will also ask about any recent head trauma, as Adie's pupil is more common in people with a history of head injury.
In some cases, the doctor may also order imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. This may include a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and/or eyes.
Treatment of Adie's Pupil
Adie's pupil is not a serious condition and usually does not require treatment. The pupil will often return to normal on its own over time.
In cases where the pupil does not return to normal, the doctor may recommend treatment with eye drops or oral medications. These medications may help to reduce the size of the pupil and improve the response to light.