Which term refers to a definite turning upward of the eye?

Hypertropia refers specifically to a condition where one eye is positioned higher than the other when the eyes are aligned. This upward deviation is often noticeable in both primary gaze and during certain eye movements. It is a type of strabismus, which is a misalignment of the eyes, and it can have significant implications for vision and binocular function. Recognizing hypertropia is crucial in clinical settings since it may lead to double vision or other visual disturbances if not addressed.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different conditions related to eye alignment and movement. Hyperphoria, for example, is a latent tendency for one eye to drift upward, often requiring specific testing to reveal the misalignment when the dominant eye is covered. Esophoria involves a tendency for one eye to drift inward and is characterized by a form of heterophoria, which may occur without overt misalignment when both eyes are open. Exotropia describes a condition where one eye turns outward, away from the nose, leading to a different form of strabismus. Understanding these distinctions is essential for effective diagnosis and treatment in an optical practice.