in Medical Terms

What Does Spastic Strabismus Mean?

Spastic strabismus is a condition where strabismus, or squint, is caused by spasmodic contractions of the ocular muscles. Strabismus is a visual disorder in which the eyes do not properly align with each other, resulting in one eye turning in, out, up, or down.

Key Features of Spastic Strabismus

  • Spasmodic Contractions: The condition arises from involuntary and irregular muscle contractions in the eye, leading to abnormal eye movements and alignment. These contractions cause the affected eye(s) to deviate from their normal position.
  • Squint (Strabismus): The primary symptom is the misalignment of the eyes. Depending on which muscles are affected and how they contract, the eyes may turn inward (esotropia), outward (exotropia), upward (hypertropia), or downward (hypotropia).
  • Causes: Spastic strabismus can result from various underlying neurological or muscular disorders that impact the control of eye movements. Conditions like cerebral palsy, certain types of brain lesions, or other neurodegenerative diseases can contribute to this type of strabismus.
  • Symptoms: The misalignment of the eyes can lead to visual discomfort, double vision, and difficulty with depth perception. Over time, it may also affect binocular vision and overall visual function.

Management of spastic strabismus typically involves addressing the underlying neurological or muscular condition contributing to the spasms. Treatment options may include physical therapy, medications to reduce muscle spasms, and sometimes surgical interventions to correct the eye alignment and improve visual function.

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