Accommodative convergence

Accommodative convergence is that portion of the range of inward rotation of both eyes (i.e. convergence) that occurs in response to an increase in optical power for focusing by the crystalline lens (i.e. accommodation).[1] When the human eye engages the accommodation system to focus on a near object, signal is automatically sent to the extraocular muscles that are responsible for turning their eyes inward. This is helpful for maintaining single, clear, and comfortable vision during reading or similar near tasks. However, errors in this relationship can cause problems, such as hyperopic individuals having a tendency for crossed eyes because of the over exertion of their accommodation system.

Clinically, accommodative convergence is measured as a ratio of convergence, measured in prism diopters, to accommodation, measured in diopters of near demand. The patient is instructed to make a near target perfectly clear and their phoria is measured as the focusing demand on the eye is changed with lenses.

See also

• Convergence insufficiency
• Negative relative accommodation
• Positive relative accommodation

References

1. Cassin, B. and Solomon, S. Dictionary of Eye Terminology. Gainesville, Florida: Triad Publishing Company, 1990.