Can raised intracranial pressure (ICP) cause strabismus?

Raised intracranial pressure (ICP) can indeed cause strabismus, particularly through mechanisms that affect the cranial nerves responsible for eye movement. In this case, the correct answer highlights the impact of ICP on the nerve pathways that control eye alignment.

Specifically, a significant increase in pressure within the skull can compress the oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve III), trochlear nerve (cranial nerve IV), or abducens nerve (cranial nerve VI), which are crucial for coordinating eye movements. When these nerves are compressed or damaged due to the elevated pressure, it can lead to misalignment of the eyes, resulting in strabismus. This misalignment happens because when neurological control over eye muscles is compromised, the eyes can no longer move in a coordinated or aligned fashion.

While the other answers might touch on aspects of ICP and its effects, they do not accurately describe the mechanisms responsible for strabismus. Therefore, the correct response emphasizes the direct impact of cerebral pressures on nerve function and the resulting eye movement disorders that may emerge.