What does anisocoria refer to?

Anisocoria specifically refers to the condition of having unequal sizes of the pupils in the eyes. This phenomenon can occur due to a variety of reasons, including physiological variations, neurological conditions, or as a response to certain medications. When one pupil is larger than the other, it can indicate underlying health issues, particularly in the neurological system. Recognizing anisocoria is crucial in a clinical setting, as it can be a significant sign that warrants further investigation for potential causes such as traumatic brain injury, intracranial hemorrhage, or other neurological disorders.

In this context, the other options do not accurately describe anisocoria. For instance, unequal limbs would refer to a condition affecting the extremities, while inability to speak is more associated with aphasia or dysarthria. Loss of coordination relates to ataxia, which is a different symptom entirely. Therefore, understanding that anisocoria pertains exclusively to pupil size helps clarify its significance in neurological assessments.