Brown's syndrome

Brown's syndrome
Synonyms	Superior oblique tendon sheath syndrome
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Diplopia, strabismus, limited eye movement
Complications	Amblyopia, binocular vision problems
Onset	Congenital or acquired
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Congenital abnormalities, trauma, inflammation
Risks	Family history, previous eye surgery
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, forced duction test
Differential diagnosis	Duane syndrome, inferior oblique palsy
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Observation, surgery, steroid injections
Medication	Corticosteroids
Prognosis	Variable, often stable
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Brown's Syndrome is a rare eye disorder that is usually present at birth (congenital). It is characterized by an inability to elevate the eyeball when trying to move the eyeball to the outside. Brown's Syndrome can also occur because of other conditions (acquired) such as sinusitis, trauma, or other inflammatory conditions.

Causes

Brown's Syndrome is caused by an abnormality of the superior oblique tendon, a band that connects the eye to the eye socket. This abnormality prevents the eye from moving normally. The cause of this abnormality is not known, but it may be due to genetics or injury to the eye.

Symptoms

The main symptom of Brown's Syndrome is an inability to move the eye upward, especially when trying to move the eye outward. This can cause the affected person to tilt their head in order to see properly. Other symptoms may include double vision, strabismus (crossed eyes), and amblyopia (lazy eye).

Diagnosis

Brown's Syndrome is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. The doctor will look for the characteristic inability to move the eye upward. Other tests may include imaging studies such as MRI or CT scan to look at the structures of the eye.

Treatment

Treatment for Brown's Syndrome depends on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, no treatment may be necessary. In more severe cases, treatment options may include physical therapy for the eye, surgery, or botulinum toxin injections.

Prognosis

The prognosis for Brown's Syndrome is generally good. Many people with the condition have normal vision, although they may have some difficulty moving their eye. In some cases, the condition can improve on its own without treatment.

See Also

• Eye Disorders
• Strabismus
• Amblyopia