RAPD
Relative Afferent Pupillary Defect
Plain-language definition
Abnormal pupil response on swinging flashlight test, indicating one optic nerve transmits signals less efficiently than the other.
Read our full article on Relative Afferent Pupillary Defect (RAPD).
Where this term comes up
“Left-sided relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD) was present along with light-near dissociation in both eyes, despite normal fundoscopic appearance”
Publication · Bilateral Progressive Vision Loss in Noninfectious HIV Retinopathy without Infectious Retinitis
“Relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD): an abnormal pupil response indicating optic nerve dysfunction”
Guide · Optic Neuritis and MS Risk - Understanding Your Diagnosis
“Pupil exam: relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD)”
Condition · Neuroretinitis
- Category
- Clinical term
- Also written as
- No alternate forms listed.
Clinical terms are words clinicians use to describe symptoms, signs, risk factors, or patterns seen during evaluation.
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A note on medical context
A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.