Amblyopia is the loss of an eye's ability to see details. The condition appears in one eye. The cause is by lack of use of that eye in early childhood.

Amblyopia can be caused by any condition that causes one eye to be favored, and the other ignored by the brain. Strabismus (crossed eyes), farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism in both eyes, and childhood cataracts are common causes of amblyopia.

The preferred eye becomes has normal vision. The non-favored eye is ignored by the brain to avoid a clash between the two different images from the eyes. As a result, the visual system in the brain for the non-favored eye does not develop properly. Between ages 5 and 10, the brain stops growing and the condition becomes permanent.

Strabismus is the most common cause of amblyopia, and there is often a family history of this condition.

Amblyopia should be suspected in a child if any of the following are seen:

• Eyes that turn in or out
• Eyes that do not appear to work together
• Inability to judge depth correctly

Amblyopia is usually easily diagnosed with a complete examination of the eyes. Special tests are usually not required.

The primary treatment involves patching the normal eye to force use of the non-preferred, amblyopic eye. Sometimes, drops are used to blur the vision of the normal eye instead of putting a patch on it. Younger patients have more potential for the visual system of the brain to develop, and thus better potential for improved vision when amblyopia is treated.

The underlying condition will also require treatment. If vision problem (nearsightedness or farsightedness) is the cause, glasses or contact lenses will be prescribed. If strabismus is the cause, this will require a program of treatment.

Children whose vision cannot be expected to fully recover should wear glasses with protective lenses of polycarbonate, as should all children with only one good eye caused by any disorder. Polycarbonate glasses are shatter- and scratch-resistant.

When treatment starts before age 5, near complete recovery of normal vision is usually possible. This becomes progressively less likely as children become older. Only partial recovery can be expected after age 10.

• Complex problems with muscle alignment may require several surgeries, which can have complications.
• Late treatment may result in permanent vision loss in the affected eye.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider or ophthalmologist if a vision problem is suspected in a young child.

Early recognition and treatment of the problem in children can help to prevent permanent visual impairment. All children should have a complete eye examination at least once between age 3 and 5 to avoid the risk of allowing unsuspected amblyopia to go beyond the age where it can be treated successfully.