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What is the Test of Skew?

Published in Eye Examination 1 min read

The test of skew, specifically the "vertical skew" test, involves observing eye realignment after covering and uncovering one eye.

Vertical Skew Test Explained

The vertical skew test is a clinical examination used to detect vertical misalignment of the eyes, also known as vertical strabismus. Here's a breakdown:

  • Procedure: The test involves covering one eye for several seconds and then quickly uncovering it.

  • Observation: The examiner observes the movement of the eye as it is uncovered and allowed to regain fixation.

  • Positive Finding: A realignment of the eye in the vertical direction (upward or downward movement) upon uncovering is concerning and suggests a possible vertical skew deviation. This means the eyes are not aligned vertically, and the brain has to work to correct the misalignment.

Interpretation

The presence of a vertical skew deviation can indicate various neurological or ophthalmological conditions. It's important to note that repeated testing over a short period might lead to fatigue and potentially alter the results.