If binocularity is not achieved by 6 to 12 months, what should be done?

If binocularity is not achieved by 6 to 12 months, what should be done?

• A. The child must be observed for strabismus
• B. Immediate surgical correction
• C. Begin eye patch therapy
• D. Reassess at 2 years

Answer: (A)

Binocular vision should be established by about 6 months to 1 year; if it isn’t achieved, this may indicate strabismus that can affect visual development. The best action is to observe for signs of eye misalignment and promptly refer the child for a comprehensive ophthalmologic evaluation. Early assessment allows accurate diagnosis and timely treatment to prevent amblyopia. Immediate surgery isn’t the right next step without a specialist’s evaluation, and patching or other amblyopia treatments aren’t started without a plan from eye care professionals. Waiting until 2 years of age could allow preventable vision problems to persist.

Binocular vision should be established by about 6 months to 1 year; if it isn’t achieved, this may indicate strabismus that can affect visual development. The best action is to observe for signs of eye misalignment and promptly refer the child for a comprehensive ophthalmologic evaluation. Early assessment allows accurate diagnosis and timely treatment to prevent amblyopia. Immediate surgery isn’t the right next step without a specialist’s evaluation, and patching or other amblyopia treatments aren’t started without a plan from eye care professionals. Waiting until 2 years of age could allow preventable vision problems to persist.