Amblyogenic Risk Factors in Primary Family Members of Patients with Exotropia

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To investigate the prevalence of amblyogenic risk factors in the primary family members (parents, siblings) of patients with exotropia. METHODS: The authors of the present study examined primary family members including parents and siblings of 58 exotropia patients in our clinic. Best corrected visual acuity, refractive error, and cover-uncover test were performed. A total of 49 normal children's family members (control group) were examined in a similar manner. The prevalence of significant ocular findings were determined and compared to the control group. RESULTS: In 58 eligible families (153 subjects except proband), 65.4% had significant ocular findings: In parents, anisometopia, astigmatism, hyperopia, and strabismus were found at a rate of 18.1%, 31.1%, 2.5%, and 11.2%, respectively. In siblings, anisometropia, astigmatism, hyperopia, and strabismus were found at a rate of 24.3%, 24.3%, 5.4%, and 18.9%, respectively. Compared to the control group, in parents of exotropia patients, anisometropia, astigmastim, and strabismus were observed at a higher rate. In siblings, anisometropia, and strabismus were observed at a higher rate. CONCLUSIONS: Primary family members of exotropia patients have a high prevalence of amblyogenic risk factors. The present study offers rationale for providing comprehensive eye exams for parents and children with a family history of exotropia.