Page Contents
OVERVIEW
This page is designed to organize content that is relevant to the topic of ophthalmoplegia. This term is used often in medicine, and it is important that we become as familiar as possible with it.
WHAT EXACTLY IS IT?
Before going any farther, let us make sure we clearly define the “medical problem”. Ophthalmoplegia refers to the paralysis of the muscles within/surrounding the eye. There can actually be specific subtypes of ophthalmoplegia.
WHY IS IT A PROBLEM?
This finding can be the sign of a more serious underlying pathology
ORGANIZING THE DIFFERENTIAL
The differential diagnosis for ophthalmoplegia can be organized in a few different ways:
- Can’t miss diagnosis
- Organ systen
- Disease category
- Diagnostic modality
- Most common diagnosis
CLINICAL “WORKUP”
Now that the possible causes of ophthalmoplegia have been established, the focus can shift to how one would actually “work-up” a patient who presents with ophthalmoplegia.
- Collecting the history
- Performing the physical
- Ordering studies/tests
- Interpreting clinical data
Page Updated: 11.30.2016