Congenital cataract is a condition in which the natural lens of the eye is cloudy at birth or develops during early childhood. This clouding prevents light from properly reaching the retina and can affect normal visual development.
Congenital cataracts may be caused by:
Signs and symptoms may include:
If not treated early, congenital cataract can lead to permanent visual impairment due to deprivation amblyopia (lazy eye). Early detection and timely management are essential for normal visual development.
Treatment is primarily surgical and involves removal of the cloudy lens. Depending on the child’s age and condition, visual rehabilitation may include:
> Intraocular lens (IOL) implantation
> Contact lenses or glasses
> Amblyopia therapy (patching)
Postoperative care is crucial and includes:
Long-term monitoring is essential to ensure proper visual development.
