Congenital fibrosis of extraocular muscles

Congenital fibrosis of extraocular muscles (CFEOM) refers to a group of rare conditions that affect the normal development and function of the muscles that control eye movement and position. In general, people affected by these conditions are unable to move their eyes in certain directions and often have strabismus and/or droopy eyelids (ptosis); however, the severity of the condition and the associated signs and symptoms vary significantly by subtype. CFEOM can be caused by changes (mutations) in several genes, including KIF21A, TUBB3 , PHOX2A , and TUBB2B. In some cases, the underlying genetic cause is unknown. CFEOM can be inherited in an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive manner, depending on the subtype. Treatment is based on the signs and symptoms present in each person.