Pseudostrabismus Causes Courses

Pseudostrabismus, also known as “false strabismus” or “pseudostrabismic syndrome,” is an optical illusion of crossed eyes caused by the visual illusory effect generated by certain facial features. The condition is not related to actual or functional strabismus and does not necessarily interfere with normal vision. Pseudostrabismus can be associated with various facial structures, including epicanthal folds, flat nasal bridges, and wide set eyes. The most common cause of pseudostrabismus is simply having wider-set eyes than average. The wider the eyes, the greater potential for an illusion of crossed eyes. Other causes may include certain properties of the eyelids, such as “epicanthal folds”—the inward skin folds that run along the bridge of the nose—or a low nasal bridge, which creates the illusion of greater eye separation. Some facial disorders, such as Crouzon’s Syndrome, can also be factors in pseudostrabismus. In most cases, pseudostrabismus does not require any treatment, as the condition has no impact on vision or ability to function. In cases where the condition may be causing psychological distress, glasses can help reduce the illusion for the person wearing them. If the condition is a result of a facial disorder such as Crouzon’s Syndrome, surgery may be recommended to correct associated physical characteristics.