Dorsal Midbrain Syndrome

Dorsal midbrain syndrome, also known as Parinaud syndrome, is a set of eye movement disturbances caused by damage to the back part of the midbrain, a region of the brainstem.

Common causes: It may arise from tumors in that area of the brain, fluid buildup (hydrocephalus), problems with cerebral circulation, or inflammatory processes.

Frequent symptoms: Difficulty looking upward, abnormal reaction of the pupils to light, and, at times, retraction of the eyelids or double vision.

Which specialist treats it? The neurologist and the neurosurgeon are the ones who study these disturbances, often together with the ophthalmologist. When changes in eye movement are accompanied by other neurological symptoms, a specialized evaluation is important.