palinopsia
Pronunciation: pal-ih-NOP-see-uh
Persistence or recurrence of visual images after the stimulus has been removed, often indicating posterior cerebral pathology.
Full Definition
Palinopsia is a rare visual phenomenon characterized by the abnormal persistence or recurrence of visual images after the original visual stimulus has been removed or has moved out of the visual field. Patients may see trailing images of moving objects or persistent afterimages of stationary objects. This condition can be classified as immediate (images persist continuously) or delayed (images reappear after a temporal gap). Palinopsia often indicates dysfunction in the posterior visual pathways, particularly the occipital and parietal lobes, and may be associated with migraine, seizures, drug toxicity, or structural brain lesions. The condition can be highly distressing to patients and may interfere with daily activities.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether immediate or delayed type and describe the visual characteristics carefully.
In Context
- "The patient reported palinopsia with persistent trailing of moving objects following her posterior circulation stroke." — Neuro-ophthalmology consultation
- "Drug-induced palinopsia resolved completely after discontinuation of the offending medication." — Neurology follow-up note