Duane Syndrome is a rare congenital eye movement disorder that affects the muscles responsible for controlling eye movement. It is characterized by limited or absent horizontal eye movement, accompanied by abnormal head posture to compensate for the limited eye movement. The exact prevalence of Duane Syndrome is not well-established, but it is estimated to occur in approximately 1 in every 1,000 to 10,000 individuals.
Duane Syndrome is typically diagnosed in childhood, and it is more commonly observed in females. The condition can affect one or both eyes, with the involvement of the left eye being more frequent. Duane Syndrome is often classified into three types based on the direction of limited eye movement: type 1 (limited abduction), type 2 (limited adduction), and type 3 (limited both abduction and adduction).
While the exact cause of Duane Syndrome is unknown, it is believed to result from abnormal development of the cranial nerves that control eye movement during early fetal development. In some cases, it may be associated with other genetic or syndromic conditions. Treatment options for Duane Syndrome aim to manage symptoms and improve eye alignment. These may include glasses, prisms, or surgery to correct abnormal head posture or improve eye movement.
It is important for individuals with Duane Syndrome to receive regular eye examinations and appropriate management to optimize visual function and quality of life.