Amblyopia, also known as lazy eye, is a reduced visual acuity in one or both eyes that can occur even without visible eye problems. Amblyopia develops when the brain does not learn to see and interpret images correctly due to insufficient stimulation during the critical early years of life.
This developmental defect of the visual pathways can be caused by various factors. In the case of refractive errors, light is not focused on the retina, resulting in blurred vision. If this is not corrected with glasses, it can lead to amblyopia. Similarly, this developmental defect can be caused by strabismus (crossed eyes) or, less commonly, by structural anomalies such as a drooping eyelid or corneal scars.
Amblyopia is the leading cause of vision loss in children and can lead to permanent visual impairment if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as the condition is typically not correctable after the visual development phase is complete.