In the cover-uncover test, movement of the covered eye as the cover is REMOVED indicates:
- A Manifest deviation (tropia) of that eye
- B Normal binocular vision
- C Latent deviation (phoria) of that eye ✓
- D Superior oblique palsy
Correct answer: C. Latent deviation (phoria) of that eye
Explanation
The cover-uncover test differentiates tropia from phoria. When the cover is placed over one eye and the uncovered eye is observed — movement indicates a manifest tropia (that uncovered eye was deviating). When the cover is REMOVED and the previously covered eye is observed — movement (refixation) of that eye reveals a latent deviation (phoria) as the fusion reflex was disrupted by covering. No movement on uncovering indicates orthophoria or that any latent phoria is fully compensated.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.