Argyll Robertson pupil

Last reviewed 01/2018

The Argyll Robertson pupil is usually bilateral and characterised by:

• small, irregular pupils
• the size of the pupils may be unequal
• absence of the light reflex
• a prompt accomodation reflex
• pupils slowly dilate with mydriatics

The most common cause of this condition is syphilis. If the aetiology is syphilitic then the pupils are generally unequal and irregular. Also there is atrophy and depigmentation. The ciliospinal reflex is lost.