Internuclear ophthalmoplegia

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Internuclear ophthalmoplegia (pronunciation: /ˌɪntərˈnjuːklɪər ˌɒfθælməˈpliːdʒiə/) is a disorder characterized by the impairment of eye movements, specifically horizontal gaze, due to a lesion in the medial longitudinal fasciculus (MLF).

Etymology

The term "internuclear ophthalmoplegia" is derived from the Latin words "inter" meaning between, "nucleus" referring to the brainstem nuclei, "ophthalmos" meaning eye, and "plegia" meaning paralysis.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of internuclear ophthalmoplegia is the inability to move the eyes horizontally in the same direction (conjugate gaze). This is often accompanied by nystagmus, an involuntary movement of the eyes, in the abducting eye. Other symptoms may include diplopia (double vision), and vertigo (a sensation of feeling off balance).

Causes

Internuclear ophthalmoplegia is most commonly caused by a lesion in the MLF, a bundle of nerve fibers that coordinates eye movements. This lesion is often due to multiple sclerosis in younger patients, and stroke or brainstem infarction in older patients.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of internuclear ophthalmoplegia is typically made through a neurological examination, specifically observing the patient's eye movements. Further diagnostic tests may include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify the location and cause of the lesion.

Treatment

Treatment for internuclear ophthalmoplegia primarily involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition. This may involve medication or therapy for multiple sclerosis, or interventions to manage stroke or brainstem infarction.

See also

External links

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