From the Research
The condition when both eyes are unable to move laterally is called bilateral abducens nerve palsy. This neurological disorder prevents the eyes from moving side to side while typically preserving vertical eye movements. Bilateral abducens nerve palsy can occur in isolation or as part of a syndrome, and results from damage to the abducens nerve, which controls lateral eye movements. The abducens nerve innervates the lateral rectus muscle, which moves the eye outward, and its damage can lead to an inability to abduct the eye 1. Common causes of bilateral abducens nerve palsy include head trauma, stroke, multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, or congenital disorders. Diagnosis typically involves a neurological examination, imaging studies like MRI or CT scans, and sometimes electrophysiological tests. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include addressing the primary condition, vision therapy, or in some cases, surgical interventions to improve eye alignment. According to a recent study, orbital mechanical causes can be overlooked in lateral rectus palsy, and high-resolution orbital imaging is essential in diagnosing the condition 1.
Some key points to consider in the diagnosis and management of bilateral abducens nerve palsy include:
- The importance of imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scans, to rule out intracranial pathology or orbital fractures 2, 3
- The potential for recovery of abducens nerve function, even in cases of traumatic injury 2, 1
- The need for careful examination and diagnosis to determine the underlying cause of the palsy, and to guide treatment decisions 1, 3
- The possibility of associated conditions, such as sympathetic nerve damage, which can affect the recovery stage of abducens nerve palsy 4