Duane’s Retraction Syndrome :A Review

Duane’s retraction syndrome is a congenital form of strabismus characterized by horizonatal eye movement limitation, globe retraction and palpebral fissure narrowing in attempted adduction. The syndrome is classified in three types based on the presence of defect in adduction, abduction or both. Numerous theories concerning the etiology and pathogenesis of DRS have been proposed including agenesis of the abducens nucleus, but the majority of investigators concur that the characteristic findings are best explained by a paradoxical innervation of the lateral rectus muscle, which subsequently causes a cocontraction of the horizontal rectus muscles. When required, surgical procedure are used to improve the primary gaze alignment, face turn and postural position.