20th March 2020
A homonymous hemianopia is the loss of part of the field of vision on the same side, in both eyes. It frequently occurs to those with brain tumours, and to those who have suffered from a stroke or traumatic brain injuries.
Potential pitfall:
Visual field examinations can be difficult to achieve in consultation due to time-limiting factors and patient cooperation. Therefore if patients describe possible visual field problems, an optician’s visual field loss assessment can be useful.
Helpful hint
NICE NG12 guidelines suggest an urgent direct access MRI scan of the brain, (or CT scan if MRI is contraindicated) (to be performed within 2 weeks), to assess for brain or central nervous system cancer in adults with progressive, sub-acute loss of central neurological function.
Cancer Keys are brought to you by GatewayC.
Access GatewayC’s ‘Brain Tumours – Early Diagnosis’ course here
