13th February 2025

Oncological

Tumours are rare as a cause of vision loss but can result in severe and progressive visual field defects. The exact defect is according to the site of the lesion, but typical examples include:

• Cerebral tumours: contralateral homonymous hemianopia
• Pituitary tumours: bitemporal hemianopia. These tumours can be non functional or produce hormones, e.g. prolactin, ACTH or growth hormone. Be aware of idiosyncratic presentations, such as skin hyperpigmentation seen in ACTH-producing tumours due to its effect on melanocyte-stimulating hormone receptors.