Sneeze-induced visual and ocular motor dysfunction.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this report is to describe two neuroophthalmic complications that are related by their temporal association with a sneeze.


METHODS
We describe observational case reports of two patients.


METHODS
Both patients were examined, and their conditions were diagnosed and treated according to standard indications for each neuroophthalmic condition.


RESULTS
The first case describes a patient who had previously undergone intracranial surgery, including removal of the clivus and later developed a trochlear nerve paresis after a sneeze. The second case describes a patient who repeatedly demonstrates transient decreased perfusion to his right central retinal artery and an associated afferent papillary defect after sneezing.


CONCLUSIONS
The mechanical and hemodynamic forces involved in sneezing are formidable and may cause permanent cranial neuropathy or temporarily alter ocular blood flow in certain patients.
Andreoli
Christopher M
CM
Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.
Leff
Gayle B
GB
Rizzo
Joseph F
JF
D000328:Adult; D004172:Diplopia / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011681:Pupil Disorders / Q000209:etiology*; D015356:Retinal Artery Occlusion / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology; D012912:Sneezing; D013285:Strabismus / Q000209:etiology; D020432:Trochlear Nerve Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D018615:Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color