The Foster Kennedy syndrome involves optic atrophy in one eye and papilloedema in the other. In which tumour location is this classically described?
- A Pituitary macroadenoma compressing the optic chiasm
- B Cavernous sinus thrombosis obstructing venous drainage
- C Olfactory groove meningioma compressing the ipsilateral optic nerve ✓
- D Craniopharyngioma in the suprasellar region
Correct answer: C. Olfactory groove meningioma compressing the ipsilateral optic nerve
Explanation
Foster Kennedy syndrome is caused classically by olfactory groove or medial sphenoid ridge meningiomas that directly compress the ipsilateral optic nerve causing optic atrophy and anosmia, while raising intracranial pressure causing contralateral papilloedema. A pseudo-Foster Kennedy syndrome (bilateral sequential papilloedema resolving to atrophy on one side) must be distinguished on the basis of bilateral visual evoked potentials and normal olfaction.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.