General fibrosis syndrome

Fibrosis of the extraocular muscles can involve multiple muscles, including the levator, and become part of the general fibrosis syndrome, which is characterized by the replacement of normal muscle tissue by fibrous tissue of varying degrees. The characteristics of this syndrome are well described although they are often confused with other similar entities. Fourteen patients are presented who display the typical characteristics of the syndrome with three members of one family being highlighted in our study. It is not currently known or described that visual acuities are problems in these children, but refractive error may not only be significant but it may vary with time and failure to pay particular attention to this fact may lead to amblyopia. The surgical correction of the strabismus is difficult but should be attempted because of the benefit it can offer, particularly from the cosmetic standpoint.