North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What does dysconjugate gaze indicate in a patient?

1. Equal eye movement

2. Vertical eye alignment

3. Unequal eye movement

4. Convergently aligned eyes

The correct answer is: Unequal eye movement

Dysconjugate gaze refers to a condition where the eyes do not move together in unison; instead, there is a misalignment in their movements. When patients exhibit dysconjugate gaze, it indicates that the eyes are not properly aligned and are moving independently of one another, which can suggest underlying neurological or ocular issues. This condition can be associated with various disorders, including vestibular system dysfunction, cranial nerve palsies, or increased intracranial pressure. In contrast, equal eye movement would imply that both eyes are moving together correctly, while vertical eye alignment would suggest that the eyes are aligned properly in a vertical plane. Convergently aligned eyes indicate that both eyes are directed toward a common point, which is opposite to the concept of dysconjugate gaze. Hence, recognizing dysconjugate gaze as a sign of unequal eye movement is crucial for identifying potential medical concerns in a patient.