Scintillating scotoma

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Scintillating scotoma is the most common visual aura preceding migraine and was first described by 19th century physician Hubert Airy (1838–1903). It may occur as an isolated symptom without headache in acephalgic migraine. While many variations occur, the scintillating scotoma usually begins as a "ball of light" in the center of the visual fields, which obscures vision to some degree. It then takes on the form of a shimmering arc of white or colored lights. The arc of light gradually enlarges, becomes more obvious, and may take the form of a definite zig-zag pattern, sometimes called a fortification spectrum, because of its resemblance to the battlements of a castle or fort. It may be difficult to read or drive while the scotoma is present. Symptoms typically resolve within 15-30 minutes, leading to the headache in classic migraine, or resolving without consequence in acephalgic migraine.