Spasm of the near reflex: functional or organic disorder?

Abstract

Two patients with spasm of the near reflex are reported. From the literature it is not clear whether this is a functional or an organic disorder. The possible pathogenesis of the syndrome is discussed. The most probable explanation is thought to be a functional disturbance manifesting itself in excessive use of the voluntary convergence system. The high incidence of organic disorders in patients with this syndrome, however, justifies both neurological and psychiatric investigation.