Outcome of sixth nerve palsy or paresis in young children

This study evaluated the ophthalmological outcome following sixth nerve palsy or paresis in 64 children 7 years of age and younger. The outcomes considered were vision, residual strabismus and the need for strabismus surgery. Etiologies included tumor, hydrocephalus, trauma, infection, malformation, and idiopathic and miscellaneous causes. Strabismus surgery was performed on 24% of the patients, with residual strabismus present in 66% of the patients. Neurologists and ophthalmologists should monitor visual acuity in these young children at frequent intervals be prepared to institute amblyopia therapy early in the course of the ocular misalignment if permanent visual disability is to be avoided.