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Extraocular muscle function testing
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| Definition: |
An examination of the function of the eye muscles, which is done by a doctor observing the movement of the eyes in six specific directions.
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| Alternative Names: |
EOM; Extraocular movement; Ocular motility examinatin
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| How the test is performed: |
You are asked to sit or stand with your head erect and a forward gaze. Your health care provider will hold a pen or other object 12 inches in front of your face. Without moving your head, the examiner will move the object from a center point in space out to the periphery at the following angles and ask you to follow without moving your head: 45 degrees, 90 degrees, 135 degrees, 180 degrees, 225 degrees, 270 degrees, 315 degrees, and 360 degrees.
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| How to prepare for the test: |
No special preparation is necessary for this test.
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| How the test will feel: |
The test involves only normal movement of the eyes.
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| Why the test is performed: |
This test is performed to evaluate any weakness or other defect in the extraocular muscles which may result in double vision or nystagmus.
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| Normal Values: |
Normal movement of the eyes in all cardinal directions.
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| What abnormal results mean: |
If there are oscillations of the eyes during the test, nystagmus is present. For more information on the clinical significance of fine oscillations in the eye see nystagmus.
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| What the risks are: |
There are no risks associated with this test.
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| Special considerations: |
Minute nystagmus at extreme lateral (to the side) gaze is normal.
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Review Date: 11/30/2001
Reviewed By: Edward B. Feinberg, M.D., M.P.H., Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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