The red reflex exam is primarily used to screen for what condition?

The red reflex exam is primarily used to screen for cataracts in infants and young children. During this examination, a light is shone into the eye, and the reflection of light from the retina is observed through a direct ophthalmoscope. A clear, bright red reflex indicates a normal, healthy eye. However, if a cataract is present, it can obstruct the light path, resulting in a diminished or absent red reflex. This is a critical screening tool because early detection of cataracts can lead to timely intervention, which is vital for preserving vision in young patients.

While the other conditions listed may have some relevance in eye examinations, they are not the primary focus of the red reflex exam. For instance, strabismus involves the misalignment of the eyes and is typically assessed with different methods rather than the red reflex. Blindness is a broader condition that can arise from various causes, not specifically related to the presence of the red reflex. The blinking response is a normal reflex that occurs when the eye is exposed to sudden stimuli, which again does not relate directly to the red reflex exam's purpose.