Pediatric Cataract

What is a Pediatric Cataract?

Cataracts are conditions where the eye's lens becomes opaque, reducing vision clarity. Cataracts can affect newborns and children, causing pediatric cataract. It is a major cause of blindness in children, with prevalence in India at 15 per 10,000 children. Early identification improves visual outcomes. Untreated cataracts can lead to full or partial vision loss.

What are the Common Causes?

• Genetics
• Pregnancy infections
• Pharmaceutical side effects
• Injuries

How to Detect Cataracts in Children?

The common symptom of a pediatric cataract is a white reflex in the black eye center. Symptoms can be detected by torchlight. Other signs include:

• Sensitivity: Observation by holding objects close to the face.
• Reception: Failure to recognize familiar faces from a distance.
• One-eye cataract may not show symptoms.

Pediatric Ophthalmologists may recommend tests to check eyesight, determine cataract type, and assess eye damage.

How is a Pediatric Cataract Treated?

• Some cataracts: If cataracts don’t significantly impair vision, glasses may be sufficient.
• Surgical intervention: If the cataract severely impairs vision, surgical removal and artificial intraocular lens replacement are recommended.
• Post-surgery care: Contact lenses or glasses may be required for children until they reach three to four years of age.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-ups are essential as treatment extends beyond surgery, with glasses possibly needed for near reading and writing.