Smooth Pursuit Deficiency (SPD) is a medical condition related to eye movement that affects the ability of an individual to track an object accurately using their eyes. The word "smooth" is pronounced as /smuːð/, while "pursuit" as /pərˈsuːt/. Deficiency is pronounced as /dɪˈfɪʃənsi/. The word "smooth" means "having an even and regular surface, texture or movement." "Pursuit" refers to the act of pursuing or chasing, while "deficiency" means a lack of something essential. Together, these terms describe a condition where the smoothness of eye movements is deficient.
Smooth pursuit deficiency refers to a visual tracking impairment characterized by the inability to smoothly and accurately track moving objects with one's eyes. It is a condition where individuals experience difficulty in following or pursuing objects smoothly and fluidly using their eyes, resulting in jerky or irregular eye movements instead. This impediment affects the oculomotor system, which is responsible for coordinating eye movements and maintaining visual fixation.
Smooth pursuit deficiency can stem from various underlying causes, including neurological disorders, brain injuries, or abnormalities in the visual processing pathways. It may occur as a result of cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, or other conditions that affect the integrity and efficiency of the oculomotor system. Individuals with smooth pursuit deficiency often find it challenging to track moving objects, tasks that require accurate eye-hand coordination, or activities that demand sustained focus and tracking abilities, such as reading or participating in sports.
Diagnosing smooth pursuit deficiency typically involves comprehensive eye examinations, tracking analysis, and may also include specialized tests to evaluate the integrity of the oculomotor system. Treatment approaches may vary based on the underlying cause and severity of the deficiency. Therapeutic interventions may include vision therapy exercises, oculomotor training, specialized eye movements training, and adaptive strategies to compensate for the visual tracking impairment. With appropriate intervention and rehabilitation, individuals with smooth pursuit deficiency may experience improvements in their ability to track moving objects and enhance their overall visual tracking skills.