Incidence of esotropia developing in subjects previously diagnosed with pseudoesotropia: A pilot study

Purpose: To assess the rate of development of esotropia following the diagnosis of pseudoesotropia among young children. Methods: Retrospective records review of children diagnosed during an eye examination with pseudoesotropia prior to age 5 years with a reassessment for strabismus completed after age 5 years. Results: Thirty-one patients met the inclusion criteria. The median age at diagnosis of pseudoesotropia was 1.3 years. Fourteen were boys (45%). Six (19.4%) children were subsequently diagnosed with esotropia (95% confidence interval: 7.5 to 37.5%). Conclusion: Even when experienced examiners find no misalignment in young children, a small number will later be found with esotropia. Serial examinations and parent education about this possibility need to be considered.