What does the term "scotoma" refer to in medical terminology?

The term "scotoma" specifically refers to an area of vision loss within the visual field. It can manifest as a blind spot or a region where vision is significantly reduced or absent, despite surrounding areas maintaining normal vision. Scotomas can appear in various shapes and sizes and may arise from a range of conditions affecting the retina, optic nerve, or visual pathways, such as migraines, glaucoma, or retinal diseases. Understanding this concept is essential in diagnosing and managing various visual disorders, which can impact a patient’s overall health and quality of life. The other options describe different visual conditions, but they do not accurately represent the specific definition of a scotoma.