Terson's syndrome is caused by retinal hemorrhage, which is bleeding within the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. This bleeding typically occurs due to increased pressure within the skull, known as intracranial hypertension.
Here are some common causes of intracranial hypertension that can lead to Terson's syndrome:
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage: Bleeding in the space between the brain and the thin tissues that cover it.
- Traumatic brain injury: A blow to the head can cause bleeding and swelling in the brain.
- Stroke: Blockage or rupture of blood vessels in the brain.
- Meningitis: Inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
- Brain tumor: A growth in the brain that can put pressure on surrounding tissues.
Terson's syndrome can also occur in people with pre-existing eye conditions such as:
- Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina.
- Diabetic retinopathy: A complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure.
It's important to note that Terson's syndrome is rare, and it often occurs in conjunction with other serious medical conditions.