Sudden loss of vision--history and examination.

BACKGROUND

Sudden loss of vision requires careful history and examination to identify the underlying cause.

OBJECTIVE

This article discusses the various causes of sudden loss of vision and provides the general practitioner with a guide to examination.

DISCUSSION: Rapidity of onset, duration and associated symptoms provide vital clues to the nature of the disease process. Simple examination techniques such as visual acuity measurement, confrontational visual field testing, pupil assessment and fundoscopy are integral to the appropriate assessment, treatment and referral of patients presenting with sudden loss of vision.