Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Holmes-Adie syndrome, also commonly referred to as Adie's syndrome or Adie's tonic pupil, is a neurological disorder characterized by a tonic, dilated pupil and diminished deep tendon reflexes. The condition is frequently documented under various historical and clinical names, though Holmes-Adie syndrome remains the standard term used in modern medical literature to honor the two physicians who independently described it in 1931. What are the common synonyms for Holmes-Adie syndrome? Because Holmes-Adie syndrome was described independently by Gordon Holmes and William John Adie, it is sometimes referred to by only one of their names or both.
Holmes-Adie Syndrome synonyms
Other names for Holmes-Adie Syndrome: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
Holmes-Adie syndrome, also commonly referred to as Adie's syndrome or Adie's tonic pupil, is a neurological disorder characterized by a tonic, dilated pupil and diminished deep tendon reflexes. The condition is frequently documented under various historical and clinical names, though Holmes-Adie syndrome remains the standard term used in modern medical literature to honor the two physicians who independently described it in 1931.
What are the common synonyms for Holmes-Adie syndrome?
Because Holmes-Adie syndrome was described independently by Gordon Holmes and William John Adie, it is sometimes referred to by only one of their names or both. Clinicians may use the following terms in medical records:
- Adie's syndrome
- Adie's tonic pupil
- Holmes-Adie pupil
- Tonic pupil syndrome
- Pupillotonic pseudotabes (a historical term rarely used today)
Why does Holmes-Adie syndrome have multiple names?
The variety of names for Holmes-Adie syndrome stems from the era of clinical discovery when eponyms (naming diseases after the physicians who identified them) were standard practice. While "Adie's syndrome" is a common shorthand, the full Holmes-Adie syndrome nomenclature is preferred in academic settings to acknowledge the contributions of both researchers. Furthermore, the term "tonic pupil" is often used descriptively to focus specifically on the ocular manifestation of the condition.
How is Holmes-Adie syndrome classified in medical systems?
Official medical databases categorize the condition to ensure diagnostic consistency across global health systems. You will find Holmes-Adie syndrome listed in the following ways:
- Orphanet: Listed under ORPHA:1062, categorized as a rare neurological disease.
- ICD-10/11: Typically coded under disorders of the pupil (e.g., H57.03 in ICD-10 for Adie's pupil).
- OMIM: Documented as a distinct clinical entity, though it is often considered a benign, sporadic condition rather than a genetic disorder.
Next steps
- Consult a neuro-ophthalmologist to confirm your diagnosis and rule out other causes of pupillary dilation.
- Connect with the 53 members of the Holmes-Adie syndrome community at DiseaseMaps.org to share experiences and coping strategies.
- Keep a copy of your diagnostic report in your medical file, noting both the official diagnosis and any synonyms used by your specialist.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of your physician with any questions regarding a medical condition.
References
- Orphanet: Adie syndrome (ORPHA:1062)
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Holmes-Adie syndrome
- OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): Adie syndrome
- PubMed: Historical perspectives on the identification of tonic pupils
