Acquired Esotropia

Definition:

Acquired Esotropia refers to a type of strabismus characterized by inward deviation of one eye, resulting in the misalignment of both eyes inwards. Unlike congenital esotropia, acquired esotropia develops later in life, typically after the age of six months.

Causes:

The causes of acquired esotropia can vary and may include:

  • Refractive Errors: Significant nearsightedness or farsightedness can cause the eyes to turn inward.
  • Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): Reduced vision in one eye can lead to acquired esotropia, as the brain sometimes attempts to eliminate images from the weaker eye.
  • Eye Muscle Imbalance: Strain or weakness in the eye muscles, particularly the ones responsible for outward eye movement, can result in inward eye deviation.
  • Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or neurological diseases, can contribute to the development of acquired esotropia.
  • Eye Injuries: Trauma or injury to the eye can disrupt the proper alignment of the eyes, leading to esotropia.

Symptoms:

Common symptoms associated with acquired esotropia include:

  • Crossed Eyes: Inward misalignment of one or both eyes.
  • Diplopia (Double Vision): Perception of two overlapping or separate images due to misaligned eyes.
  • Eyestrain: Discomfort or fatigue in and around the eyes.
  • Head Tilting: Tilting the head in an attempt to align the eyes.
  • Decreased Depth Perception: Difficulty judging distances or perceiving depth.

Treatment:

Treatment for acquired esotropia may involve:

  • Corrective Lenses: Prescribed glasses or contact lenses to address refractive errors.
  • Patching or Atropine: To treat amblyopia and promote visual development in the weaker eye.
  • Vision Therapy: Eye exercises and activities to improve eye muscle coordination and control.
  • Botox Injections: In some cases, botox injections may be used to temporarily weaken specific eye muscles and allow better alignment.
  • Eye Muscle Surgery: Surgical correction of the eye muscles to restore proper alignment.

If you suspect acquired esotropia in yourself or your child, it is essential to consult an ophthalmologist or optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination and appropriate treatment.