What is Esotropia?

Esotropia refers specifically to a condition where one eye is misaligned and turns inward toward the nose. This inward deviation can occur intermittently or be constant and is often associated with strabismus, where both eyes do not properly align. The alignment is crucial for binocular vision and depth perception. In cases of esotropia, the brain may ignore the input from the misaligned eye to avoid double vision, which can lead to amblyopia or "lazy eye" if not addressed.

Recognizing this condition is important in diagnosing and treating vision problems in individuals, particularly in children where early intervention can significantly enhance visual outcomes. The condition can arise due to various factors, including muscle imbalances, neurological issues, or refractive errors, but the defining characteristic is the inward turning of the eye.