Alternate Names : Abducens palsy, Lateral rectus palsy
Definition
Cranial mononeuropathy VI is a nerve disorder that causes people to see two of the same image (double vision).
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Cranial mononeuropathy VI is damage to the sixth cranial (skull) nerve. This nerve, also called the abducens nerve, helps control eye movement.
Disorders of this nerve can occur with:
- Brain aneurysms
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Increased pressure in the skull (intracranial pressure)
- Infections (such as meningitis or sinusitis)
- Tissue damage from loss of blood flow (infarction)
- Trauma (caused by head injury or accidentally during surgery)
- Tumors
In some people, there is no obvious cause.
Because there are common nerve pathways through the skull, the disorder may affect other cranial nerves (such as the third or fourth cranial nerve).
Pictures & Images
Central nervous system and peripheral nervous system
The central nervous system is comprised of the brain and spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system includes all peripheral nerves.
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Cranial mononeuropathy VI : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Cranial mononeuropathy VI : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Cranial mononeuropathy VI : Treatment
Review Date : 12/21/2009
Reviewed By : Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
