Infantile Esotropia Definition:

Infantile esotropia refers to a form of strabismus, or misalignment of the eyes, characterized by inward deviation of one or both eyes. It is typically diagnosed in infancy or early childhood and is considered a type of early-onset strabismus.

Causes:

The exact cause of infantile esotropia is unknown. However, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It may be associated with abnormalities in the control of eye movement or the development of the visual pathways in the brain.

Symptoms:

The primary symptom of infantile esotropia is the noticeable inward turning of the eyes, which may be constant or intermittent. Children with this condition often have poor depth perception, as their eyes are not aligned properly to focus on a single point. They may also experience eye strain, headaches, and difficulties with binocular vision.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing infantile esotropia involves a comprehensive eye examination, typically performed by an ophthalmologist or a pediatric ophthalmologist. The doctor will assess the alignment of the eyes, test visual acuity, evaluate eye movements, and rule out any underlying causes or associated conditions.

Treatment:

Early intervention is crucial in the management of infantile esotropia. The main treatment options include:

• Glasses: Prescription eyeglasses may be prescribed to correct any refractive errors and help improve alignment.
• Patch therapy: Occlusion therapy, involving covering the unaffected eye with a patch, may be recommended to strengthen the muscles of the affected eye.
• Strabismus surgery: Surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the eye misalignment. The specific procedure will depend on the individual case and the severity of the condition.

Prognosis:

The outcome of infantile esotropia treatment varies depending on several factors, including the age of onset, the severity of the eye turn, and the response to treatment. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can often lead to successful alignment of the eyes and improved visual function.

Conclusion:

Infantile esotropia is a form of strabismus characterized by inward deviation of the eyes. It requires early diagnosis and intervention to mitigate potential vision and developmental consequences.