Strabismus is a disorder in which the eyes do not line up in the same direction when focusing. The condition is more commonly known as "crossed eyes."
Alternative Names: Crossed eyes; Esotropia; Exotropia; Squint; Walleye
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Strabismus is caused by a lack of coordination between the eyes. As a result, the eyes look in different directions and do not focus at the same time on a single point.
In most cases of strabismus in children, the cause is unknown. In more than half of these cases, the problem is present at or shortly after birth (congenital strabismus).
In children, when the two eyes fail to focus on the same image, the brain may learn to ignore the input from one eye. If this is allowed to continue, the eye that the brain ignores will never see well. This loss of vision is called amblyopia , and it is frequently associated with strabismus.
Some other disorders associated with strabismus in children include:
A family history of strabismus is a risk factor. Farsightedness may be a contributing factor. In addition, any other disease causing vision loss may cause strabismus.
A neurological examination will also be performed.
Treatment:
Treatment involves strategies to strengthen the weakened muscles and realign the eyes. Glasses and eye muscle exercises may be prescribed.
If the condition is caused by a lazy eye, the doctor may prescribe an eye patch. Some children may need surgery. For more information on treating lazy eye, see: Amblyopia
Support Groups:
Expectations (prognosis):
With early diagnosis and treatment, the problem can usually be corrected. Delayed treatment may lead to permanent vision loss in one eye.
Calling your health care provider:
Strabismus requires prompt medical evaluation. Call for an appointment with your health care provider or eye doctor if your child:
Appears to be cross-eyed
Complains of double vision
Has difficulty seeing
Note: Learning difficulties or problems at school can sometimes be due to a child's inability to see the blackboard or reading material.
Prevention:
References:
Hatt SR, Leske DA, Kirgis PA, Bradley EA, Holmes JM. The effects of strabismus on quality of life in adults. Am J Ophthalmol. 2007 Nov;144(5):643-7.
Review Date: 7/28/2008 Reviewed By: Manju Subramanian, MD, Assistant Professor in Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Disease and Surgery, Boston University Eye Associates, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
