Definition of Amaurosis fugax:

Amaurosis fugax is loss of vision in one eye due to a temporary lack of blood flow to the retina.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Amaurosis fugax is thought to occur when a piece of plaque in the carotid artery breaks off and travels to the retinal artery in the eye. Plaque is a hard substance that forms when fat, cholesterol and other substances build up in the walls of arteries. Pieces of plaque can travel through the bloodstream. Vision loss occurs as long as the blood supply to the artery is blocked.

Atherosclerosis of the arteries in the neck is the main risk factor for this condition. Risk factors for atherosclerosis include heart disease, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and high blood pressure.