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Holmes Adie syndrome

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Holmes Adie syndrome, also known as Adie syndrome, is characterized by a tonically dilated pupil (adie pupil), absent or reduced deep tendon reflexes, and often autonomic symptoms like postural hypotension 1.

Diagnosis

  • Key Diagnostic Criteria: Tonic pupil (usually unilateral), absent or diminished ankle reflexes, normal neurological examination otherwise 1.
  • Recommended Tests:
  • - Pupillary Light Reflex Testing: Demonstrates delayed constriction to light in the affected pupil 1. - Reflex Testing: Absent or reduced deep tendon reflexes, particularly ankle reflexes 1.
  • Grading: No standardized grading system; diagnosis is clinical based on presence of key features 1.
  • Management

  • First-Line Treatments:
  • - Botulinum Toxin Injections: For symptomatic relief of pupil dilation 1.
  • Adjunctive Treatments:
  • - Symptomatic Management: Addressing autonomic symptoms with lifestyle modifications and medications as needed 1.

    Special Populations

  • Pregnancy: Limited data; management focuses on symptomatic relief with caution in use of certain medications 1.
  • Pediatrics: Rare; diagnosis and management similar to adults but requires careful monitoring 1.
  • Elderly: Increased vigilance for comorbidities affecting autonomic function; management tailored to individual needs 1.
  • Comorbidities: Consider impact on autonomic function; multidisciplinary approach may be necessary 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Confirm diagnosis through clinical evaluation emphasizing pupillary light reflex testing and reflex assessment (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • Use botulinum toxin injections for symptomatic relief of pupil abnormalities (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • Tailor management in special populations, particularly considering potential impacts on autonomic function in the elderly and pregnant patients (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • References

    1 Siddiqui AA, Clarke JC, Grzybowski A. William John Adie: the man behind the syndrome. Clinical & experimental ophthalmology 2014. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      William John Adie: the man behind the syndrome.Siddiqui AA, Clarke JC, Grzybowski A Clinical & experimental ophthalmology (2014)

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