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Professional Technical IVT

congenital fibrosis of extraocular muscles

Also written as: CFEOM — congenital fibrosis of extraocular muscles

A group of inherited disorders characterized by restriction of eye movements due to fibrosis and maldevelopment of extraocular muscles.

Full Definition

Congenital fibrosis of the extraocular muscles (CFEOM) comprises several autosomal dominant disorders affecting ocular motility. CFEOM1, the most common form, presents with bilateral ptosis, restricted eye movements, and chin-up head posture due to inability to elevate the eyes above the midline. The condition results from developmental abnormalities of cranial nerve nuclei and their axons, leading to secondary muscle fibrosis. Genetic testing can identify mutations in genes including KIF21A, PHOX2A, and TUBB3. Management focuses on ptosis repair and strabismus surgery to improve function and cosmesis, though outcomes are often limited by the degree of restriction.

Usage

Usage note: Specify the subtype (CFEOM1, 2, or 3) when known and note inheritance pattern for genetic counseling.

In Context

  • "Genetic testing confirmed CFEOM1 with a KIF21A mutation in this family with multiple affected members." — Genetic counseling report
  • "The patient's congenital fibrosis of extraocular muscles limited surgical outcomes despite aggressive intervention." — Surgical outcome documentation

Also known as

CFEOM congenital cranial dysinnervation disorder

Don't confuse with

acquired fibrosis chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia myasthenia gravis

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