Exotropia (“Wall-Eyed”)

Exotropia is the medical term for outward-turning eyes – a form of strabismus in which one or both eyes deviate outward. In English, the term "wall-eyed" is often used for this condition. The opposite, inward-turning eyes, is called esotropia.

What does "wall-eyed" mean?

The English term "wall-eyed" describes the appearance that the eyes seem to look in different directions, "as if toward the wall". In medical terminology, this is called exotropia or divergent strabismus.

Forms of exotropia

• Intermittent exotropia: The most common form in children. The outward deviation occurs only intermittently – typically when tired, inattentive, or looking into the distance. Between episodes, the eyes are straight.
• Constant exotropia: The eye deviates outward permanently.
• Sensory exotropia: Develops when one eye is severely visually impaired by another disease (such as cataract, retinal changes) and drifts outward as a result.

When is treatment needed?

Treatment depends on the frequency and degree of exotropia. Possible measures include:

• Glasses: If refractive errors are present
• Occlusion therapy: If amblyopia (lazy eye) is present
• Strabismus surgery: If the exotropia becomes more frequent, worsens, or threatens binocular vision

A detailed description of all examination and treatment options can be found in our glossary entries on Strabismus (crossed eyes) and Strabismus Surgery.

When should you see an ophthalmologist?

If you notice that one of your child’s eyes turns outward intermittently or constantly, you should arrange for an ophthalmologic examination. Even though intermittent exotropia may appear inconspicuous at times, professional evaluation is important to initiate the right treatment at the right time.