Congenital cataracts can cause cloudy vision and may be caused by chromosomal abnormalities, metabolic disorders, or intrauterine infections. Surgery is usually needed to remove them, and an intraocular lens may be implanted. Complications are rare, but underlying causes can affect other organs.
A cataract is a condition that usually causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy. This usually prevents light from hitting the retina at the back of the eye structure, resulting in blurry and cloudy vision. Congenital cataracts typically occur at birth or appear shortly thereafter. Cataracts can be located in the center of the lens or under the lens material near the pupil of the eye. Unilateral or bilateral congenital cataracts can appear in one or both eyes.
While the cause of congenital cataracts is sometimes not known, there are factors believed to cause their occurrence. These factors include chromosomal abnormalities, metabolic disorders, and intrauterine infections before birth. Other causes may include congenital rubella, Down syndrome, or a family history of congenital cataracts. An eye exam by an ophthalmologist can usually diagnose this condition. The possible cause of this condition could also be researched by a pediatrician who is also experienced with hereditary disorders.
Symptoms of congenital cataracts may present as cloudiness of the lens or as a white spot on the lens or pupil. A child’s inability to show interest in their surroundings may be an indication that they have cataracts. Rapid and unusual eye movements, known as nystagmus, are also considered a symptom.
Sometimes the cataract isn’t severe enough and its location doesn’t affect vision, so it doesn’t require any treatment. If the location of the cataract affects vision, surgery is usually needed to remove them. When the cataract is removed within 17 weeks of birth, it usually increases the likelihood that normal vision will develop.
Cataract removal surgery usually involves suctioning the cataract through a small incision. Some children require an intraocular lens to be implanted after cataract removal. After surgery, placement of a patch on the healthy eye is usually recommended. This is usually done to force the child to improve vision in the affected eye and to prevent amblyopia, commonly referred to as lazy eye.
The outcome of the surgery is usually excellent. While all surgeries carry risks, cataract surgery is a fairly routine procedure; complications of the surgery are rare. The underlying cause of congenital cataracts can affect other organs if not found or treated. If there are underlying structural defects, good visual acuity may never be achieved. Some children with bilateral cataract removal are eventually able to develop equal vision in both eyes.
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