Use of control scores for intermittent exotropia
Reviewed by Fiona Rowe

This study surveyed paediatric ophthalmologists to determine their use of the Newcastle, PEDIG and LACTOSE control scores in the diagnosis and management of intermittent exotropia. The authors aimed to identify how frequently control scores are used clinically, the barriers to their use and suggestions for improving the control scores. This was a 12-question multiple choice survey. 114 of 1897 responses were completed – 6% response rate. 46.5% of ophthalmologists had been in practice for >20 years, 53.5% in academic practice and 46.5% in private practice. There was no significant different in use of controls scores with years in practice or type of practice. 50.9% relied on their own clinical judgment when assessing control, 26.3% used PEDIG, 11.4% used history of deviation frequency reported by carers, 7% used the Newcastle score, 3.5% used multiple scores, 0.9% used development of amblyopia and none for the LACTOSE score. The authors conclude most paediatric ophthalmologists are aware of control scores for intermittent exotropia but most do not use them regularly. PEDIG was preferred by respondents in this study to the Newcastle score.

Understanding the use of the Newcastle, PEDIG and LACTOSE control scores among pediatric ophthalmologists for intermittent exotropia.
Thuma TBT, Zhang Q, Sharpe J, Gunton KB.
JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY AND STRABISMUS
2023;60:131-8.