accommodative spasm

Full Definition

Accommodative spasm is a condition characterized by involuntary, sustained contraction of the ciliary muscle, resulting in excessive accommodation that cannot be voluntarily relaxed. This leads to induced myopia, eye strain, and often headaches. The condition can be functional (psychogenic) or organic, and may be associated with head trauma, medications, or neurological conditions. Diagnosis is confirmed by demonstrating excessive accommodation that improves with cycloplegic agents, and treatment often involves cycloplegic drops and addressing underlying causes.

Usage

Usage note: Often presents as sudden-onset myopia, particularly in young patients.

In Context

• "The patient's apparent myopia resolved with cycloplegic drops, confirming accommodative spasm." — Refractive evaluation
• "Accommodative spasm was suspected given the fluctuating refractive error and eye strain symptoms." — Pediatric ophthalmology consultation