Episodic Excessive Blinking in Children.

PURPOSE: Many children present with excessive blinking. Categorization, associated conditions, and prognosis are controversial.

METHODS

All children with excessive blinking were reviewed, excluding those with known uveitis, glaucoma, or obvious eyelid abnormalities. Parents were telephoned for follow-up.

RESULTS

No ocular pathology was identified in 31 of 34 children with excessive blinking (91%). Parents were able to report a specific cause of blinking in 7 (21%). In 24 of 34 (71%), parents reported complete resolution of excessive blinking. No new ophthalmologic diagnoses were uncovered on follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Episodes of excessive blinking rarely indicate neurologic disorders and frequently resolve spontaneously.