scotoma
Pronunciation: sko-TOE-mah
An area of diminished or absent vision within the visual field, which may be absolute or relative.
Full Definition
A scotoma is a localized area of visual field loss that can be either absolute (no light perception) or relative (decreased sensitivity to light stimuli). Scotomas can be physiological, such as the blind spot corresponding to the optic disc, or pathological, resulting from retinal, optic nerve, or cortical lesions. They may be central (affecting fixation), paracentral (near fixation), or peripheral. The pattern, size, and characteristics of scotomas provide important diagnostic information about the location and nature of visual pathway damage.
Usage
Usage note: Plural is scotomas or scotomata; specify whether absolute or relative when documenting.
In Context
- "Automated perimetry revealed a dense central scotoma consistent with macular pathology." — Visual field report
- "The patient described a paracentral scotoma that interfered with reading but spared central fixation." — Patient history documentation