Cranial mononeuropathy III - compression type

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Central nervous system

Third cranial nerve palsy; Oculomotor palsy; Pupil-involving third cranial nerve palsy

• Double vision
• Drooping of one eyelid
• Headache or eye pain

Other symptoms may occur if the disorder is caused by tumors or trauma. Decreasing consciousness is a particularly ominous sign, and implies impending severe brain damage or death.

Examination of the eyes may indicate cranial mononeuropathy III. The pupil of the affected eye may be dilated (enlarged). Eye movement abnormalities will vary depending on whether the nerve is damaged completely or incompletely. The gaze may be dysconjugate (the eyes do not align). Investigation must include a complete medical and neurological examination to ascertain whether any other systems of the body are affected.

Blood tests and imaging studies such as a CT scan or MRI are usually necessary. An angiogram of the brain or spinal tap may be important if an aneurysm is suspected.

Review Date: 08/07/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.