End Position nystagmus is a term used in ophthalmology to describe an eye movement disorder. It occurs when the eye shows involuntary, repetitive movements, bouncing or shaking when looking in a certain direction. The spelling of this word can be broken down into its individual sounds using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ɛnd pəˈzɪʃən nɪˈstæg.məs/. The first syllables are pronounced as "end" (ɛnd), "po" (pə) and "zi" (ˈzɪʃ). The second part of the word "nystagmus" (nɪˈstæg.məs) is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable.
End Position Nystagmus refers to a medical condition characterized by involuntary and repetitive eye movements, specifically occurring when the eyes reach their end or extreme positions of gaze. Nystagmus, in general, refers to an abnormal and rhythmic oscillation of the eyes, which can be classified into different types based on the direction and circumstances in which it occurs. End Position Nystagmus, also known as gaze-evoked nystagmus, manifests when the eyes move to the limits of their movement in any given direction.
This type of nystagmus is commonly observed during a clinical examination when a physician instructs the patient to gaze in different directions. The abnormal eye movements may be horizontal, vertical, or rotary, and they typically increase in intensity as the gaze reaches its extreme position. The involuntary oscillations usually cease or decrease in severity when the patient's eyes return to primary or central position.
End Position Nystagmus often occurs due to disruptions or abnormalities in the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation. It can be associated with various underlying conditions, such as inner ear disorders, brainstem lesions, multiple sclerosis, or medication side effects. The presence of End Position Nystagmus can be an important sign for healthcare professionals to identify and investigate potential underlying causes.
Diagnosis of End Position Nystagmus involves a detailed clinical examination, including a thorough medical history, assessment of eye movements, and often imaging studies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, to evaluate the brain and inner ear structures. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, and management may involve medications, physical therapy, or surgical interventions, if applicable.
In summary, End Position Nystagmus is a medical condition characterized by abnormal involuntary eye movements occurring