Retinal embolism, homonymous hemianopsia, and double optic neuritis, in cases of anaemia / by C. O. Hawthorne.

  • Hawthorne, C. O. (Charles Oliver), 1858-1949.
Date:
[1904]
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Licence: In copyright

Credit: Retinal embolism, homonymous hemianopsia, and double optic neuritis, in cases of anaemia / by C. O. Hawthorne. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by UCL Library Services. The original may be consulted at UCL (University College London)

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    finds an obvious bond with the other three cases in that in all of them the only discoverable , condition competent to explain the distinctive events which marked their course was the qualitative defect of the blood. Thus in this defect an explanation of these events, in some sense or other, must be found. That this explanation in the cases of retinal embolism and of homonymous hemianopsia is afforded by the suggestion of thrombosis can hardly be open to question. And in view of this conclusion it may be urged that the same pathological process offers itself as a not unlikely interpreta- tion of the case in which double optic neuritis is the peculiar feature. It is certainly noteworthy that the unusual events occurring in four cases of anaemia appear to find in thrombosis —an admitted possibility in the circumstances—an adequate and inclusive interpretation. The presentation of a rival suggestion having an equally comprehensive claim is not a task that may be easily accomplished. ABSTRACTS OF CASE-RECORDS. Case I.—L. R., aet. 21, maidservant. Fourteen days before examination at the Central London Ophthalmic Hospital complained of headache and discomfort in her left eye, which, on closing her right eye, she found to be blind. Ophthalmo- scopic appearances as of comparatively recent embolism of the central artery; left pupil no direct but free consensual light- response ; V. = no P.L. Decided pallor of mucous membranes and loud venous hum at the root of the neck on each side ; cardiac impulse and left border of dulness in nipple-line, sounds pm-e. Physical examination otherwise negative. Some com- plaint of breathlessness on exertion and menses deficient in amount. Personal history of occasional pains in arms, but no definitely rheumatic incident, and family history also free from evidences of rheumatism. After a month's treatment the general condition of the patient had much improved, but the defective vision of the left eye remained without change. (I am indebted to Mr. Brittin Archer for the opportunity of seeing this patient.) Case IL—k. G., at. 42, hospital matron, unmarried. Loss