Pseudostrabismus explained

Information for parents from the Orthoptic Department

Your child has a condition called pseudostrabismus. This leaflet will explain:

We hope this leaflet helps to answer some of the questions you may have. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to a member of your child's healthcare team.

What is a pseudostrabismus?

A pseudostrabismus or pseudosquint is the appearance of a deviating eye. It may look as though one or both eyes appear to turn in, out, up, or down; but in fact the eyes are straight.

  1. Photo showing a left convergent squint (the child's eye turns in)
    True strabismus (squint)
  2. Photo of child with pseudostrabismus. It looks like the eye turns in but it doesn't as the white dots are in the centre of each eye.
    Pseudostrabismus

What causes a pseudostrabismus?

The most common cause of pseudostrabismus is epicanthus. Epicanthus are prominent folds of skin over the inside corner of the eye. Epicanthus is often linked with a flat bridge of the nose.

Other causes of pseudostrabismus include:

Is it common?

Yes. Many babies have a pseudostrabismus.

What is the treatment?

No treatment is needed. As your child grows, the bridge of their nose will develop. This will cause the pseudostrabismus to become less noticeable.

How will my child be assessed?

The appointments with the orthoptist are to observe your child.

Will my child need to be tested for glasses?

Your child will be a offered a glasses test if:

The test for glasses is called refraction. It will be done by an optometrist (optician) or an ophthalmologist (eye doctor).

More information is available in the Glasses and testing for glasses (hospital refraction) leaflet.

What are the benefits of having my child assessed?

The main benefit is peace of mind, knowing your child’s vision is good and that they do not have a true squint. If this is not the case we will be able to advise you on the best treatment for your child.

Are there risks to not being assessed?

Assessment at a young age is important, as a squint can develop in children who had a pseudostrabismus as a baby.

Will my child need future eyesight tests?

All children are offered: