A patient with CN IV palsy typically tilts their head in which direction to compensate?

Prepare for the NBEO Ocular Anatomy Posterior Segment and Cranial Nerves Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

A patient with CN IV palsy typically tilts their head in which direction to compensate?

Explanation:
When the superior oblique is weakened by CN IV palsy, the affected eye drifts upward and extorts, causing vertical diplopia that worsens with gaze toward the involved eye. To minimize this misalignment, the patient typically tilts the head toward the shoulder opposite the lesion. This contralateral head tilt helps realign the eyes and reduce diplopia by using the intact muscle actions more effectively. Tilting toward the affected side would worsen the misalignment, and a neutral posture doesn’t correct it.

When the superior oblique is weakened by CN IV palsy, the affected eye drifts upward and extorts, causing vertical diplopia that worsens with gaze toward the involved eye. To minimize this misalignment, the patient typically tilts the head toward the shoulder opposite the lesion. This contralateral head tilt helps realign the eyes and reduce diplopia by using the intact muscle actions more effectively. Tilting toward the affected side would worsen the misalignment, and a neutral posture doesn’t correct it.

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