|
Vision loss and blindness caused by pediatric cataract do have a profound impact on children, their families and their communities. However, it is often treatable with timely intervention. When successfully treated with the proper follow-up care, children will grow into fully sighted adults and will prove as an “asset” rather than “burden” to society
Prevalence
About 3 children per 10,000 children have a cataract. The incidence is variable throughout the world
Why are some babies born with cataract?
- Unknown cause
- Infections during pregnancy eg. rubella
- Metabolic disorders
- Chromosomal abnormalities
- Ocular trauma
How do I know my baby is having eye problem?
- Ideally each child within 1 month of birth should be subjected to detailed ocular examination by an ophthalmologist.
- Children having history of premature birth, low-birth weight and positive family history are at potential risk of developing cataract
- ‘White-dot’ in the centre of eye
- Squinting / unsteady eye
At what age should a cataract be removed for an infant or child? Removal (surgery) of cataract should be done as soon as possible. Though not more than 6 months of age should be exceeded for intervention, but within 3 months of age is considered most ideal for surgery.
What will happen if pediatric cataract is neglected?
Seeking immediate examination of an ophthalmologist is required. And if needed cataract surgery followed by visual rehabilitation with intra-ocular lens implantation and/or glasses or contact lens is essential.
Failure to act or delay in examination or surgery can result in functional loss of vision (Amblyopia) and other complications like glaucoma (high intra-ocular pressure)
|
