Strabismus

Strabismus is the misalignment of the two eyes. One eye can focus ahead while the other may look inward, outward, upward or downward.

Strabismus Types

Strabismus is differentiated in the following types, depending on the direction of the strabismic eye.

• ESOTROPIA – the strabismic eye looks towards the nose
• EXOTROPIA – the strabismic eye looks away from the eye.
• HYPERTROPIA – the strabismic eye moves upwards.
• HYPOTROPIA – the strabismic eye is directed towards the floor.

What Causes Strabismus

Strabismus is caused by the inability of the brain to control the muscles of the eyes. As a result the eyes fail to move together. Strabismus affects the visual development of the children and must be assessed immediately. The causes of strabismus can be different between adults and children.

Most adults have strabismus since childhood. Other causes of strabismus in adults include, diabetes, Thyroid eye disease or myasthenia.

In children strabismus can be associated with hypermetropia, myopia, astigmatism, craniosynostoses, cerebral palsy, hydrocephalus (excess intracerebral fluid).

What Are The Symptoms Of Strabismus?

The most evident symptom to the immediate family is the appearance of the eye alignment. Other symptoms can include diplopia, blurred vision, difficulty focusing/reading, loss of three dimensional vision. The symptoms in strabismus can be permanent or intermittent.

Management Of Strabismus

There are many ways we can manage the strabismus. They include spectacle correction, ocular exercises, prisms incorporated in glasses, Botulinum Toxin (Botox®) or surgery.

Related Resources

• Strabismus (AAPOS)
• Strabismus in children (American Academy Of Ophthalmology)
• What is Strabismus (American Academy Of Ophthalmology)
• Adult Strabismus Preferred Practice Pattern (AAO Journal)

Related Video