Nystagmus (Pediatric)

About Nystagmus

Nystagmus is an involuntary rhythmic moving of the eyes and can appear during the first six months of life or later. It may be an isolated problem or associated with other issues affecting the eyes or central nervous system. It can be inherited genetically or could occur as a result of the loss of vision in early childhood.

Children with Nystagmus require a prompt pediatric ophthalmologic evaluation to rule out characteristics that may suggest a serious neurologic cause of the nystagmus.

Conditions We Treat

Nystagmus can be caused by an eye muscle disorder or neurological condition. At Columbia, we treat all causes of nystagmus, including:

• Ocular albinism – genetic conditions and the eyes can appear pink or red
• Optic nerve abnormalities
• Congenital cataracts 
• Retinal dystrophies 

Diagnosis

Many children with nystagmus will position their head to be able to see where the nystagmus is least, and vision is best. This may cause a habitual abnormal head posture. Our Columbia pediatric ophthalmologists have the skills, tools, and expertise to detect all types of nystagmus.

Treatments We Offer

Eye muscle surgery can be very effective for two reasons in pediatric patients. Our pediatric ophthalmologist surgeons can alleviate an abnormal head posture and reduce the intensity of the nystagmus and improve your child’s vision.

Why Choose Columbia?

At Columbia, our pediatric ophthalmologists are experts in treating nystagmus. We have the technology and resources of the Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital and Harkness Eye Institute to provide your child with accurate and cutting-edge treatment in a personalized and humane approach for caring for our youngest and most vulnerable patients.