The Argyll Robertson Phenomenon in Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

The authors accept the definition of the Argyll Robertson pupil as formulated by S. A. K. Wilson. Myosis is not considered an integral part of the phenomenon. Until recently, the presence of this type of pupillary reaction was thought to be indicative of syphilis. However, it has been reported in other diseases of the nervous system. In cases of multiple sclerosis it has been mentioned very infrequently. The authors review the literature and report several cases of multiple sclerosis in which the Argyll Robertson phenomenon has been a prominent feature. They conclude that this type of pupillary reaction undoubtedly occurs in multiple sclerosis more often than it has been reported in the literature. The authors accept the definition of the Argyll Robertson pupil as formulated by S. A. K. Wilson. Myosis is not considered an integral part of the phenomenon. Until recently, the presence of this type of pupillary reaction was thought to be indicative of syphilis. However, it has been reported in other diseases of the nervous system. In cases of multiple sclerosis it has been mentioned very infrequently. The authors review the literature and report several cases of multiple sclerosis in which the Argyll Robertson phenomenon has been a prominent feature. They conclude that this type of pupillary reaction undoubtedly occurs in multiple sclerosis more often than it has been reported in the literature.