Scotoma Series Monoprint, PAIN WITHOUT PAIN, 8 x 8 inches
A scotoma is an area of partial alteration in the field of vision consisting of
a partially diminished or entirely degenerated visual acuity that is
surrounded by a field of normal – or relatively well-preserved – vision.
The term is from Greek σκότος/skótos, darkness.
Scintillating scotoma, as illustrated in the print above, is a common visual aura preceding migraine and was first described by 19th-century physician Hubert Airy (1838–1903). It may precede a migraine headache, but can also occur acephalgically (without headache). It is often confused with retinal migraine, which originates in the eyeball or socket.
