dissociated vertical deviation
Also written as: DVD — dissociated vertical deviation
Unique type of eye misalignment where one eye drifts upward when visual input is reduced, often associated with infantile esotropia.
Full Definition
Dissociated vertical deviation (DVD) is a distinctive form of vertical strabismus characterized by slow, upward drifting movement of one or both eyes when binocular vision is disrupted by covering or reducing visual input to that eye. Unlike traditional hypertropia, DVD is not a true vertical muscle imbalance but rather represents a disruption of normal binocular reflexes. It commonly develops in children with a history of infantile esotropia and may be associated with latent nystagmus and inferior oblique overaction as part of the 'infantile esotropia syndrome.' The condition can be unilateral or alternating, and treatment may include superior rectus recession or posterior fixation sutures when the deviation is cosmetically significant.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize DVD when used as abbreviation; distinguish from 'hypertropia' in documentation.
In Context
- "The presence of DVD, latent nystagmus, and inferior oblique overaction confirmed the diagnosis of infantile esotropia syndrome." — comprehensive eye examination
- "Bilateral DVD was successfully treated with superior rectus recession to improve the cosmetic appearance." — surgical outcome report