Benign recurrent unilateral abducens nerve palsy

The recurrence of an isolated unilateral left abducens nerve palsy on five occasions over five years is described in an adult. No evidence of any systemic or intracranial disorder has been identified. The aetiology remains uncertain and the clinical course is benign. The diagnosis of 'benign' abducens nerve palsy is one of exclusion and is made retrospectively after an adequate period of serial evaluations.