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Delayed diagnosis in a sight-threatening lesion

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Abstract

Background

Acute chiasmal compression has several aetiologies including pituitary apoplexy, a medical emergency caused by acute haemorrhagic or ischemic infarction in pituitary macroadenomas. Clinical diagnosis can often be difficult as the patient is frequently unaware of an existing adenoma. Delayed diagnosis may lead to increased morbidity and mortality.

Aim

We describe a rarely presenting case report of acute chiasmal compression with unusual visual symptoms of hemifield slide, with initial delayed diagnosis.

Conclusion

Knowledge of this infrequently presenting visual phenomenon may aid in rapid diagnosis, appropriate imaging and intervention leading to improved visual and systemic outcomes.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Ophthalmology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland

    E. O’Neill, P. Connell & P. Logan

  2. Department of Neurosurgery, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland

    D. Rawluk

Authors
  1. E. O’Neill
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  2. P. Connell
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  3. D. Rawluk
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  4. P. Logan
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to P. Connell.

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O’Neill, E., Connell, P., Rawluk, D. et al. Delayed diagnosis in a sight-threatening lesion. Ir J Med Sci 178, 215–217 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-008-0117-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11845-008-0117-3

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