Hippus

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Hippus, also known as pupillary athetosis, is spasmodic, rhythmic (< 0.04 Hz), but irregular dilating and contracting pupillary movements between the sphincter and dilator muscles[1][2]. Pupillary hippus comes from the Greek hippos meaning horse, perhaps due to the rhythm of the contractions representing a galloping horse[3].

It is particularly noticeable when pupil function is tested with a light[2], but is independent of eye movements or changes in illumination[1]. It is usually normal, however pathological hippus can occur[2][3].

Hippus has been classically been noted as sign of Aconite poisoning.[4]

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b McLaren, J. W., Erie, J. C. and Brubaker, R. F. (1992). Computerized analysis of pupillograms in studies of alertness. Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science, 33, 671-6.
  2. ^ a b c Cassin, B. and Solomon, S. Dictionary of Eye Terminology. Gainsville, Florida: Triad Publishing Company, 1990.
  3. ^ a b Beatty, J., & Lucero-Wagoner, B. (2000). The pupillary system. In J. T. Cacioppo, L. G. Tassinary & G. G. Bernston (Eds.), The handbook of psychophysiology (2nd ed.) (pp. 142-162). USA: Cambridge University Press.

4. Forensic and State Medicine: Reddy

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