Cataracts in Children and Babies
Cataracts in children and infants, it is an eye disease caused by clouding of the eye's natural lens. This prevents light from focusing clearly on the retina, impairing vision.
Cataract;
It may be present at birth (congenital)
May develop in the first years of life (developmental cataract)
It can be seen in one or both eyes.
Cataracts occurring at an early age, can seriously affect a child's visual development. Therefore, early diagnosis and proper treatment are vital.
Frequently asked questions?
What are the symptoms?
Cataracts can be difficult to detect in infants and young children. However, the following symptoms can be important warning signs:
- White or gray reflection in the pupil (leukocoria)
- Crossed eyes (strabismus)
- Hazy or blurred vision
- Extreme sensitivity to light
- Inability to follow objects
- Avoiding eye contact or indifference to the environment
- Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the cataract. In some children, vision may be completely impaired, while in others, it may be limited to mild blurring.
- White or gray reflection in the pupil (leukocoria)
- Crossed eyes (strabismus)
- Hazy or blurred vision
- Extreme sensitivity to light
- Inability to follow objects
- Avoiding eye contact or indifference to the environment
- Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the cataract. In some children, vision may be completely impaired, while in others, it may be limited to mild blurring.
What are the causes of cataracts?
Cataracts, whether present at birth or developing in early childhood, can have many causes. The most common causes include:
🔹 Genetic and Hereditary Factors
-Family history of cataracts
-Hereditary metabolic diseases
🔹 Factors Affecting Pregnancy
-Infections suffered by the mother (rubella, toxoplasmosis, syphilis, etc.)
-Some medications used during pregnancy
-Exposure to radiation
🔹 Genetic Syndromes
-Down Syndrome
-Turner Syndrome
Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome
Every child is unique, so genetic counseling may be necessary at the time of diagnosis.
🔹 Genetic and Hereditary Factors
-Family history of cataracts
-Hereditary metabolic diseases
🔹 Factors Affecting Pregnancy
-Infections suffered by the mother (rubella, toxoplasmosis, syphilis, etc.)
-Some medications used during pregnancy
-Exposure to radiation
🔹 Genetic Syndromes
-Down Syndrome
-Turner Syndrome
Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome
Every child is unique, so genetic counseling may be necessary at the time of diagnosis.
How is Cataract Diagnosed?
Cataracts are usually diagnosed using the following methods:
Baby Eye Screening: The first pediatric eye exam after birth
-Red Reflex Test: The retinal reflection of the light passing through the pupil is checked.
-Extended Eye Examination: The baby's pupil is enlarged with eye drops and the lens and retina are examined in detail.
If you suspect you have a cataract, you should consult an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. The sooner treatment begins, the higher the chance of success.
Baby Eye Screening: The first pediatric eye exam after birth
-Red Reflex Test: The retinal reflection of the light passing through the pupil is checked.
-Extended Eye Examination: The baby's pupil is enlarged with eye drops and the lens and retina are examined in detail.
If you suspect you have a cataract, you should consult an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. The sooner treatment begins, the higher the chance of success.
Treatment of Cataracts?
The only effective treatment for cataracts in children and infants is surgery.
However, these surgeries are different from adult cataract surgeries and require special expertise.
Surgical Process:
- 0–2 years: A permanent lens is not placed in the eye, but it can be placed later.
- Ages 2 and above: Intraocular lens insertion is possible.
- After the operation, the child is supported with special glasses or contact lenses.
- Even after cataract removal, visual rehabilitation is necessary for vision to improve. Glasses, patching therapy, and regular checkups play a critical role in this process.
However, these surgeries are different from adult cataract surgeries and require special expertise.
Surgical Process:
- 0–2 years: A permanent lens is not placed in the eye, but it can be placed later.
- Ages 2 and above: Intraocular lens insertion is possible.
- After the operation, the child is supported with special glasses or contact lenses.
- Even after cataract removal, visual rehabilitation is necessary for vision to improve. Glasses, patching therapy, and regular checkups play a critical role in this process.