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Associations between siblings for esotropia and exotropia
M J Podgor1, N A Remaley, E Chew
1Division of Biometry and Epidemiology, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md, USA.
Archives of Ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|June 1, 1996
Summary
This study found a significant familial link for childhood strabismus, including esotropia and exotropia. Sibling and twin studies reveal genetic factors contribute to strabismus beyond known risks.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Strabismus, a common childhood eye misalignment, has a suspected but not fully quantified familial component.
- Understanding familial aggregation is crucial for identifying genetic predispositions and developing targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the familial aggregation of esotropia and exotropia in children.
- To investigate the role of genetic factors in the etiology of strabismus.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Collaborative Perinatal Project, examining children up to age 7.
- Employed logistic regression with generalized estimating equations to assess familial aggregation of esotropia and exotropia.
- Analyzed sibling and multiple birth relationships, including zygosity, to determine associations.
Main Results:
- Esotropia showed a more than twofold increased odds in siblings when one sibling was affected.
- Exotropia demonstrated a significantly stronger association in siblings from multiple births (odds increased by at least 17-fold).
- Monozygotic twins exhibited a stronger association for both conditions than dizygotic twins, suggesting genetic influence.
Conclusions:
- A significant familial component contributes to the development of strabismus.
- Familial aggregation of strabismus is influenced by factors beyond currently identified risk factors.
- These findings underscore the importance of genetic counseling and early screening for families with a history of strabismus.