CO Diagnosis & Management of Strabismus and Amblyopia

Question 1

What is the most common type of strabismus in children?

Accepted Answer

Esotropia

Answer

Esotropia, an inward turning of one or both eyes, is the most common type of strabismus found in children. It can be constant or intermittent and often presents early in life. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent amblyopia and ensure proper visual development.

Question 2

Which test is commonly used to quantify the angle of deviation in strabismus?

Accepted Answer

Prism cover test

Answer

The prism cover test is the gold standard for quantifying the angle of deviation in strabismus. It combines the cover test with prisms to neutralize the eye's movement. By placing prisms of increasing strength in front of the deviating eye until no movement is observed upon uncovering, the orthoptist can accurately measure the magnitude of the deviation in prism diopters.

Question 3

What is the primary treatment for amblyopia in young children?

Accepted Answer

Occlusion therapy (patching)

Answer

Occlusion therapy, commonly known as patching, is the primary and most effective treatment for amblyopia in young children. It involves covering the stronger, better-seeing eye for a prescribed period each day, forcing the brain to use and develop the vision in the weaker, amblyopic eye. This stimulates the visual pathways and helps improve visual acuity.

Question 4

Which of the following conditions is most likely to result in amblyopia if left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Strabismus

Answer

Strabismus, or eye misalignment, is a leading cause of amblyopia if left untreated. When the eyes are misaligned, the brain receives two different images and, to avoid double vision, it suppresses the image from the deviating eye. This prolonged suppression prevents the visual pathway of the deviating eye from developing properly, leading to reduced vision (amblyopia).

Question 5

Which tool helps distinguish between comitant and incomitant strabismus?

Accepted Answer

Cover-uncover test

Answer

The cover-uncover test is crucial for distinguishing between comitant and incomitant strabismus. In comitant strabismus, the angle of deviation remains constant in all gaze positions, while in incomitant strabismus, the angle varies with the direction of gaze, indicating a paretic or restrictive muscle. Observing the eye movements during the cover test in different gaze positions helps identify this difference.

(CO) Certified Orthoptist Practice Test

(CO) Certified Orthoptist Practice Test

CO Diagnosis & Management of Strabismus and Amblyopia