dilated pupils

[HeatherArmitage]

A girl I am about to take care of has permanently dilated pupils she is nine and not on any medication prescribed or otherwise. She has behavioural issues and I would like to know if this can have an effect on her behaviour. I have a son who as a child had sensitivity to E numbers, his pupils were dilated and some of his behaviours were very similar to those of this girl. I know in the past she has complained about her eyes and has visited opticians as a result but never required glasses. What kinds of things can cause childrens pupils to stay dilated for long periods of time, even in bright weather, many thanks H

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

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[ncdane]

I am not a doctor by all means, but I have noticed for years that my six year old daughters eyes stay dilated.  She also has a tendency to cross them (purposely)  I have had major behavior issues with her.  She is developmentally delayed and simply will not follow directions or behave.  She is going to be held back in school this year, first grade, because she will not do the work.  She is capable she just refuses.  I would not rule out the two being related in some way.  My daughter has more than behavior problems, she cannot get herself under control.  I do feel that it is worth the research.  

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Well big pupils don't cause behaviour problems (why do people call problems "issues"?) and behaviour problems don't cause big pupils.

The pupils are larger in children and teenagers than any other time of life. (Smallest as infants and as very old).

There is a big difference between having big pupils (that react normally) and having dilated pupils that don't react to light or attempts to focus.  

If the latter a visit to a neuro-ophthalmologist is in order.

JCH MD