What Are Childhood Cataracts?
Childhood cataracts are cloudy areas in the lens of a child's eye that can affect vision development. Unlike adult cataracts, which typically develop slowly with age, childhood cataracts can be present at birth (congenital) or develop during childhood (developmental).
Types of Childhood Cataracts
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Congenital cataracts: Present at birth
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Developmental cataracts: Develop after birth
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Unilateral cataracts: Affecting one eye
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Bilateral cataracts: Affecting both eyes
Causes
Common causes include:
- Genetic factors
- Infections during pregnancy (rubella, toxoplasmosis)
- Metabolic disorders
- Trauma to the eye
- Certain medications
- Associated medical conditions
Signs and Symptoms
- White or cloudy appearance in the pupil
- Poor visual tracking in infants
- Misaligned eyes (strabismus)
- Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements)
- Difficulty seeing objects clearly
Diagnosis
- Regular pediatric eye screenings
- Comprehensive eye examination
- Specialized imaging tests
- Family history assessment
Treatment Options
Surgical Treatment
- Removal of the cloudy lens
- Intraocular lens implantation (when appropriate)
- Post-surgical care
Non-surgical Management
- Vision therapy
- Corrective eyewear
- Regular monitoring
Long-term Care
- Regular follow-up appointments
- Vision rehabilitation
- Monitoring for complications
- Educational support when needed
Prevention
- Regular prenatal care
- Maternal vaccination
- Early eye screenings
- Protective eyewear for older children
When to Seek Medical Attention
- Unusual eye appearance
- Changes in visual behavior
- Eye misalignment
- Concerns about vision development
Support Resources
- Pediatric ophthalmologists
- Vision therapy specialists
- Support groups
- Educational resources