Home > Encyclopedia of Genetic Disorders > Duane retraction syndrome

Definition

Duane retraction syndrome is a congenital disorder that limits the movement of the eye. It may also involve other systems of the body.

Description

Duane retraction syndrome (DRS or DURS) is an inherited disorder characterized by a limited ability to move the eye to one side or the other. DRS is congenital, meaning that it is present at birth. It results from abnormal connections among the nerves that control the muscles of the eyes. About 80% of DRS cases involve one eye (unilateral) and about 20% involve both eyes (bilateral). Most unilateral DRS cases (72%) involve the left eye.

DRS was first described in 1905 by A. Duane. It also is known as:

• Duane syndrome (DUS)
• DR syndrome
• eye retraction syndrome
• retraction syndrome
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