Pediatric Cataracts: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Pediatric cataracts—a clouding of the eye’s natural lens in children—are a leading cause of preventable childhood blindness. Unlike adult cataracts, they require urgent, specialized care to prevent permanent vision loss. At LJ Eye Institute, Ambala, our pediatric eye specialists combine gentle care with advanced surgical techniques to restore your child’s vision.
What are Pediatric Cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens of the eye. This lens, located behind the iris, is normally clear and helps to focus light onto the retina. In children, cataracts can be present at birth (congenital) or develop later in childhood.
Causes of Pediatric Cataracts
Pediatric cataracts can occur for a variety of reasons:
- Genetic Conditions: Many children are born with cataracts due to inherited genetic mutations.
- Infections During Pregnancy: Certain infections in the mother during pregnancy, such as rubella, can cause cataracts in the developing baby.
- Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like galactosemia can lead to cataract development.
- Eye Injuries: Trauma to the eye can sometimes cause cataracts in children.
- Steroid Use: Prolonged use of certain medications, like steroids, can be a factor.
- Unknown Causes: In some cases, the cause of a child’s cataract may not be identified.
Diagnosis of Pediatric Cataracts
Early detection is crucial for the best possible visual outcomes. Pediatric cataracts may be detected through:
- Newborn Screening: Many newborns undergo an initial eye exam to check for congenital cataracts and other eye problems.
- Routine Eye Exams: Regular eye exams throughout childhood are important for identifying any developing cataracts.
- Parental Observation: Parents may notice signs like a white or gray area in the child’s pupil, unusual eye movements, or sensitivity to light.
Symptoms of Pediatric Cataracts
Symptoms of cataracts in children can vary, but may include:
- Cloudy or white pupil
- Poor vision
- Lack of interest in looking at objects
- Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
- Misaligned eyes (strabismus)
Treatment Options for Pediatric Cataracts
The treatment for pediatric cataracts depends on several factors, including the child’s age, the severity of the cataract, and whether it affects one or both eyes. Treatment options include:
- Cataract Surgery: This is the most common treatment for pediatric cataracts. The clouded lens is removed, and an artificial lens (intraocular lens or IOL) may be implanted.
- Contact Lenses or Glasses: In some cases, especially for infants, contact lenses or glasses may be used temporarily after cataract removal to allow for visual development.
- Patching Therapy: If a child develops a “lazy eye” (amblyopia) due to the cataract, patching therapy may be necessary to strengthen the weaker eye.
Why Choose LJ Eye Institute for Pediatric Cataract Care?
LJ Eye Institute in Ambala offers expert pediatric eye care with:
- Experienced Pediatric Ophthalmologists
- Advanced Diagnostic and Surgical Facilities
- Personalized Treatment Plans
- Comprehensive Post-Surgery Support