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Intermediate Technical IVT

light-near dissociation

Pupillary response pattern with absent light reflex but preserved near response.

Full Definition

An abnormal pupillary finding where pupils fail to constrict to direct light stimulation but maintain the ability to constrict during accommodation and convergence for near vision. Classic signs include Argyll Robertson pupils (neurosyphilis), Adie's tonic pupil, and Parinaud syndrome. The dissociation occurs due to differential anatomical pathways for light and near reflexes in the midbrain. Important clinical sign requiring systematic evaluation for underlying neurological conditions.

Usage

Usage note: Always hyphenate 'light-near' when used as a compound modifier; distinguish from RAPD in documentation.

In Context

  • "Light-near dissociation was noted bilaterally, raising concern for neurosyphilis." — Neuro-ophthalmology examination
  • "The unilateral light-near dissociation suggested an Adie's tonic pupil rather than a third nerve palsy." — Pupillary assessment report

Also known as

pupillary light-near dissociation accommodation-convergence sparing

Contrasted with

normal pupillary response

Don't confuse with

relative afferent pupillary defect Horner syndrome

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