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Recurrent lateral rectus palsy in childhood

A K Afifi1, W E Bell, J F Bale

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa City 52242.

Pediatric Neurology
|September 1, 1990
PubMed

Insights

Recurrent childhood lateral rectus palsy often resolves spontaneously within six months. This condition, affecting the abducens nerve, typically recurs on the same side and is painless, with an unknown cause.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Lateral rectus palsy, affecting the abducens nerve, can occur in children.
  • Recurrent cases present unique diagnostic and management challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report on five pediatric patients with recurrent lateral rectus palsy.
  • To review the literature for similar cases and identify common features.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective case review of patients seen at University of Iowa Hospitals over 22 years.
  • Literature search for previously reported cases of pediatric abducens nerve palsy.

Main Results:

  • Five recurrent cases were identified, alongside 131 other pediatric abducens nerve palsy patients.
  • Majority of patients experienced spontaneous recovery within 6 months.
  • Common features included ipsilateral recurrence, painless palsy, female preponderance, and left-sided preference.

Conclusions:

  • Recurrent childhood lateral rectus palsy has distinct characteristics, including spontaneous resolution and recurrence patterns.
  • Etiology remains undetermined, with viral infection, neurovascular compression, and migraine as potential causes.

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