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Unlike most cataracts, which appear with age, congenital cataracts are present from birth. Congenital cataracts are not very common. In fact, in most patients no cause can be found. They are usually detected in a review with the ophthalmologist.
A congenital cataract is the clouding of the lens of the eye that is present at birth. The lens of the eye is a transparent structure, which focuses the light received by the eye on the retina.
What are the symptoms of congenital cataracts? Congenital cataracts generally look different from other forms of cataracts. Symptoms include:
1. Inability of a baby to show visual awareness of the world around him (if cataracts are in both eyes)
2. Nystagmus (rapid and unusual eye movements)
3. Gray or white opacity of the pupil
Congenital cataracts are diagnosed by a comprehensive eye exam. Explaining a possible cause may require an examination by a pediatrician experienced in inherited disorders, as well as the possible performance of blood tests or X-rays.
In some cases, congenital cataracts are mild and do not affect vision, these cases do not require treatment. Cataracts that range from moderate to severe and affect vision will require cataract removal surgery, followed by the placement of an artificial intraocular lens. A patch may be necessary to force the child to use the weaker eye to prevent amblyopia or lazy eye.
In the treatment, an intraocular lens is not always put on first, sometimes the contact lens is adapted and when the eye is more mature, an intraocular lens is implanted in a second stage.
But can congenital cataracts be prevented? If your family has a family history of hereditary disorders that could cause congenital cataracts, do not forget to visit an ophthalmologist to review your case.
Article written by Dr Jorge Torres, Specialist in ophthalmology at the Novovisión Clinic
You can read more articles similar to Congenital cataracts in children, in the category of Vision on site.