Exotropia refers to a type of strabismus (eye misalignment) where one or both eyes deviate outward. According to available information, exotropia is the outward deviation of either one or alternate eyes, which can be present intermittently or be persistent.
Understanding Exotropia
To better understand exotropia, let's break down its key characteristics:
-
Outward Deviation: The affected eye turns away from the nose, towards the temple.
-
Unilateral or Alternating:
- Unilateral exotropia involves only one eye consistently turning outward.
- Alternating exotropia involves either eye turning outward at different times.
-
Intermittent or Constant:
- Intermittent exotropia means the outward turning of the eye only happens some of the time. The eye may be straight at other times.
- Constant exotropia means the eye is always turned outward.
Progression of Exotropia
The development of exotropia often follows a pattern:
- Exophoria: A tendency for the eye to drift outward, but the individual can maintain proper alignment with effort. This is a latent deviation.
- Intermittent Exotropia: The outward drift occurs occasionally, especially when tired, ill, or daydreaming. The individual may squint or close one eye in bright light.
- Constant Exotropia: The outward drift is present all the time.
