Robertson's symptom is a medical sign that may indicate the presence of serious illnesses. It got its name in honor of the American physician William Robertson, who first described this sign in 1908.
The symptom is that the patient's pupils do not respond to light, but retain the ability to constrict when focusing on close objects. Normally, the pupils should constrict when exposed to light, which is the body's natural response to an external stimulus. However, in the presence of Robertson's symptom, the pupils do not react to light, which may indicate damage to the nervous system.
Robertson's symptom may be associated with diseases such as syphilis, diabetic neuropathy, neurolumphomatosis, multiple sclerosis and other diseases that cause damage to nerve fibers. It may also be a manifestation of nervous disorders such as autonomic neuropathy.
To detect Robertson's sign, a pupillary light reaction test is used. The doctor shines a bright light on the patient's eyes and observes their reaction. If the pupils do not constrict, this may indicate the presence of Robertson's sign.
Although Robertson's sign can be a sign of serious illness, its presence is not a definitive diagnosis. Additional tests, such as a neurological examination or laboratory tests, may be required to clarify the diagnosis.
Overall, the Robertson's sign is an important medical sign that can help doctors diagnose serious illnesses. If you suspect this symptom, you should consult a doctor for further examination and proper treatment.