Cranial mononeuropathy III - compression type

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Central nervous system

Overview

Symptoms

Treatment

Prevention

Cranial mononeuropathy III - compression type

Alternative Names:

Third cranial nerve palsy; Oculomotor palsy

Symptoms:

Double vision
Drooping of one eyelid
Headache or eye pain

Other symptoms may occur if the disorder is caused by tumors or trauma. Decreasing consciousness is a particularly ominous sign, and implies impending severe brain damage or death.

Signs and tests:

Examination of the eyes may indicate cranial mononeuropathy III. The pupil of the affected eye may be dilated (enlarged). Eye movement abnormalities will vary depending on whether the nerve is damaged completely or incompletely. The gaze may be dysconjugate (the eyes do not align). Investigation must include a complete medical and neurological examination to ascertain whether any other systems of the body are affected.

Blood tests and imaging studies such as a CT scan or MRI are usually necessary. An angiogram of the brain or spinal tap may be important if an aneurysm is suspected.

Review Date: 8/16/2004
Reviewed By: Joseph V. Campellone, M.D., Division of Neurology, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.