Extraocular cranial nerve palsies in children.

Visual disturbances resulting from acute nerve paralysis of the muscles controlling eye movements can be challenging to evaluate in the pediatric population. Children may not be capable of describing symptoms or providing an adequate history. Therefore, it is important to have an understanding of the anatomical course of the extraocular cranial nerves and clinical manifestations of their dysfunction. We report 2 cases of extraocular cranial nerve palsies and, in addition to an anatomical review, discuss the common etiologies of paralysis and the importance of ophthalmological and neurological follow-up to ensure optimal long-term visual function.