Isolated Ocular Motor Nerve Palsies

Abstract

ABSTRACTIsolated cranial nerve (CN) palsies are frequently encountered by strabismologists. Management decisions for patients with isolated ocular motor nerve palsies must take into account multiple factors, including patient age, historical features, the specific CN affected, examination findings, and coexistent medical diagnoses. In general, isolated ocular motor nerve palsies in children are assessed and managed differently than adults. Furthermore, older adults with vascular risk factors may be managed differently than younger adults and children. The need for urgent neuroimaging in older adults with microvascular risk factors is under debate and requires the physician to weigh the risks and benefits of close observation with immediate testing. The presence of multiple cranial neuropathies should also raise the level of concern and indicate the need for a more urgent work-up. The following manuscript aims to provide information on common etiologies of isolated ocular motor nerve palsies and to suggest algorithms for the management of these CN palsies in children and adult.