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Alternative names Return to top
Cataract - congenitalDefinition Return to top
A congenital cataract involves clouding of the lens of the eye that is present at birth.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
The number of people born with cataracts is low. Possible causes of congenital cataracts include the following:
Although many diseases and inherited disorders can lead to congenital cataracts, in most patients, no specific cause can be identified.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
A complete eye examination by an ophthalmologist will readily diagnose congenital cataract. The search for a possible cause may require examination by a pediatrician experienced in hereditary disorders and possible blood tests or X-rays.
Treatment Return to top
The treatment involves surgical cataract removal followed by placement of an intraocular lens (IOL). Patching to force the child to use the weaker eye may be required to prevent amblyopia.
Treatment for any underlying disorder may be needed.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Cataract surgery with placement of an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is routine and usually has excellent results.
Complications Return to top
Many of the underlying diseases associated with congenital cataract have extensive involvement of multiple organs and organ systems.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an urgent appointment with your baby's health care provider if you notice that the pupil of one or both eyes appears white or cloudy.
Prevention Return to top
If you have a family history of inheritable disorders that could cause congenital cataracts, consider seeking genetic counseling.
Update Date: 7/24/2004 Updated by: Edward B. Feinberg, MD, MPH, Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |