Characteristics and Diagnosis of Convergence Insufficiency

Abstract

Convergence Insufficiency is defined as the inability to obtain and/or maintain adequate binocular convergence without undue effort. It is one of the most common causes of ocular discomfort, the most common cause of muscular asthenopia and affects 3–5% of the population. The diagnosis is made by the presence of asthenopic symptoms and reduced amplitudes of convergence. The near point of convergence may not be reduced. The etiology of convergence insufficiency is usually idiopathic but several causes are reviewed in this article. The importance of a detailed history to assess the type of convergence insufficiency present and possible causes is noted. The important parts of the ophthalmologic examination are reviewed including near point of accommodation and convergence and the measurement of fusional amplitudes.