Excerpt from Esotropia, Pseudo

Synonyms, Key Words, and Related Terms: pseudoesotropia, pseudostrabismus, crossed eyes

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Background: Pseudoesotropia is a condition in which the alignment of the eyes is straight (also known as orthotropic); however, they appear to be crossed.

Pathophysiology: This condition most commonly occurs in infants when a flat nasal bridge and prominent epicanthal folds tend to obscure the nasal portion of the sclera. This optical illusion causes the patient to have an appearance of eyes deviated nasally, and it is most apparent when the eyes are in side gaze or are focusing up close. A small interpupillary distance (ie, the distance between 2 pupils) also can give the appearance of pseudoesotropia.

Frequency:

In the US: Pseudoesotropia is a condition with variable frequency. This condition is one of the most common reasons for infant referrals to ophthalmologists.

Race: Infants or young toddlers of Asian descent with flat nasal bridges often have this condition.

Sex: No gender predilection exists in this condition.

Age: Pseudoesotropia is more frequent in infants and toddlers where facial structures have not yet fully developed.