Total (external) ophthalmoplegia digital illustration

Total (external) ophthalmoplegia Save

ICD-10 code: H49.3

Chapter: Diseases of the eye and adnexia

Total (External) Ophthalmoplegia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Total (external) ophthalmoplegia is a rare condition that affects the eye muscles, causing difficulty in moving the eyes. It can result from various underlying medical conditions, including neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases, infections, and genetic disorders. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment of total (external) ophthalmoplegia in detail.

Causes of Total (External) Ophthalmoplegia
  1. Neurological disorders: Total ophthalmoplegia can occur due to a rare neurological disorder known as progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). PSP is a degenerative disease that affects the brainstem and basal ganglia, leading to difficulty in controlling eye movements.
  2. Autoimmune diseases: Disorders such as myasthenia gravis, Graves' disease, and multiple sclerosis can cause ophthalmoplegia by attacking the muscles that control eye movements.
  3. Infections: Certain viral infections such as Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus can cause ophthalmoplegia by damaging the nerves that control eye movements.
  4. Genetic disorders: Total ophthalmoplegia can be inherited as a genetic disorder. It can be caused by mutations in genes such as POLG, TWNK, and C10orf2.
Symptoms of Total (External) Ophthalmoplegia
  • The primary symptom of total ophthalmoplegia is difficulty in moving the eyes in different directions.
  • Other symptoms may include droopy eyelids, double vision, blurred vision, and difficulty in focusing.
  • In severe cases, patients may experience complete loss of eye movement, leading to a fixed gaze.
    • Treatment of Total (External) Ophthalmoplegia

    There is no cure for total ophthalmoplegia, and treatment is focused on managing the underlying medical condition causing the condition. Treatment options may include:

    1. Medications: Patients with autoimmune diseases causing ophthalmoplegia may benefit from medications such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.
    2. Physical therapy: Patients may undergo physical therapy to improve eye movements and strengthen the eye muscles.
    3. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the position of the eyes and improve eye movements.

    In conclusion, total ophthalmoplegia is a rare condition that can be caused by various underlying medical conditions. If you experience difficulty in moving your eyes or other symptoms of ophthalmoplegia, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the condition and prevent further complications.

    Diagnosis Codes for Total (external) ophthalmoplegia | H49.3

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