A patient reports temporary shading of vision in one eye. What is this symptom known as?

The symptom of temporary shading of vision in one eye is known as amaurosis fugax. This term refers specifically to a temporary loss of vision, often described as a curtain or shade coming over the eye, and it can indicate underlying vascular issues, such as transient ischemic attacks or problems with the blood supply to the eye. This condition typically resolves on its own, but it is a significant warning sign and warrants further evaluation to identify the underlying cause.

Understanding the nature of amaurosis fugax helps clarify its importance in a clinical context, especially concerning vascular health. Such episodes can serve as precursors to more serious conditions, including strokes. The other options, while relevant in ophthalmology and neurology, do not specifically refer to this temporary shading effect. For example, diplopia describes double vision, vertical scotoma refers to a specific type of visual field loss that doesn't involve a transient full shading of vision, and heniparesis pertains to partial paralysis, which is unrelated to visual symptoms.