exophthalmic ophthalmoplegia
Last reviewed 01/2018
Exophthalmic ophthalmoplegia is the term used to describe any restriction of movement of the eye caused by thyroid disease.
Exophthalmic ophthalmoplegia may result in:
- diplopia
- exposure keratitis
- compression of the optic nerve with decreased visual acuity
Restriction in ocular movement is caused by hypertrophy of the fatty pad behind the eye and by fatty infiltration of the extra-ocular muscles.
Most commonly diplopia is seen when the patient is asked to move their eyes upward and outwards.