Double Vision, Diplopia

Diplopia (double vision; double vision; double vision; ICD-10-GM H53.2: diplopia) refers to seeing double images. Normally, the brain combines the images seen by the right and left eyes into one spatial image. This process is called binocular vision and is impaired in diplopia.

The following forms of diplopia are distinguished:

  • Monocular diplopia – double images that affect one eye.
  • Binocular diplopia – double vision affecting both eyes [rule case of occurrence of diplopia].
  • Paroxysmal diplopia – “seizure-like” occurrence of double vision.

Double vision can be a symptom of many diseases (see under “Differential diagnoses”).

Course and prognosis: If diplopia occurs acutely and / or persists for a long time, medical clarification must be made immediately, since life-threatening diseases such as apoplexy (stroke) could be the cause. Course and prognosis depend on the cause.