Ency. home > Test > E > Extraocular muscle function testing

Extraocular muscle function testing    See images

Overview | Risks | Results

Alternative names:

EOM; Extraocular movement; Ocular motility examinatin

Definition:

An examination of the funtion of the eye muscles, which is done by a doctor observing the movement of the eyes in six specific directions.

How the Test is Performed

You are asked to sit or stand with your head erect and a forward gaze. Your health care provider will hold a pen or other object 12 inches in front of your face. Without moving your head, the examiner will move the object from a center point in space out to the periphery at the following angles and ask you to follow without moving your head: 45 degrees, 90 degrees, 135 degrees, 180 degrees, 225 degrees, 270 degrees, 315 degrees, and 360 degrees.

How to Prepare for the Test

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

How the Test will Feel

The test involves only normal movement of the eyes.

Why the Test is Performed

This test is performed to evaluate any weakness or other defect in the extraocular muscles which may result in double vision or nystagmus.

Ency. home > Test > E > Extraocular muscle function testing

[an error occurred while processing this directive]