Alternative Names
Crossed eyes; Esotropia; Exotropia; Hypotropia; Hypertropia; Squint; Walleye; Misalignment of the eyes; Comitant strabismus; Noncomitant strabismus
Definition of Strabismus
Strabismus is a disorder in which the two eyes do not line up in the same direction, and therefore do not look at the same object at the same time. The condition is more commonly known as “crossed eyes.”
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Six different muscles surround the eyes and work “as a team” so that both eyes can focus on the same object.
Symptoms
Symptoms of strabismus may be present all the time, or only when you are tired or sick.
Signs and tests
A physical examination will include a detailed examination of the eyes. Tests will be done to determine how much the eyes are out of alignment.
Treatment
The first step in treating strabismus is to prescribe glasses, if needed.
Expectations (prognosis)
After surgery, the eyes may look straight but vision problems can remain.
Review
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Franklin W. Lusby, MD, Ophthalmologist, Lusby Vision Institute, La Jolla, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A. – 7/28/2010
