Adie-Holmes Syndrome

Abstract

The Holmes-Adie syndrome is characterized by the presence of tonic pupil associated with absence or diminution of deep tendon reflexes. In some cases there may be autonomous nerve dysfunction. The mechanism that causes the disorder is not fully known, but is believed to be caused by denervation of the postganglionic supply to the sphincter of the pupil and the ciliarymuscle which can occur following viral disease. Typically it affects young adults and is unilateral in 80% of cases, although it may develop in the contralateral eye in months or years. We report a case of a woman presenting typical signs of this syndrome, in which pharmacological test was essential for diagnosis.