Did you know that cataracts can develop in newborns and young children? Unlike age-related cataracts, congenital cataracts are present at birth or develop early in life, potentially leading to vision impairment if left untreated.
But what causes congenital cataracts? Are they genetic, or can they be prevented? And most importantly, how are they treated?
In this blog, we’ll explore:
- What congenital cataracts are and how they affect vision
- The main causes behind them—genetics, infections, metabolic disorders, and more
- Signs to watch for and how they are diagnosed
- Treatment options, including surgery and corrective lenses
If you’re concerned about your child’s eye health, keep reading!
Contents
What Are Congenital Cataracts?
Congenital cataracts are cloudy patches in the lens of a baby’s eye that are present at birth or develop shortly after. The lens, which is supposed to be clear for proper vision, becomes opaque, affecting how light enters the eye and how the brain processes visual information.
How Do Congenital Cataracts Affect Vision?
- If the cataract is small or off-center, it may not significantly impact vision.
- If it is large or dense, it can block light, leading to blurry vision, poor focus, or even blindness if untreated.
- In severe cases, the brain may stop recognizing images from the affected eye, leading to lazy eye (amblyopia) or permanent vision impairment.
How Are Congenital Cataracts Different from Age-Related Cataracts?
- Congenital cataracts occur in newborns or young children, while age-related cataracts develop later in life due to natural aging.
- Unlike adult cataracts, congenital cataracts can impact eye development and require early treatment to prevent vision loss.
Causes
Congenital cataracts can develop due to genetic factors, infections during pregnancy, metabolic disorders, or unknown reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
- A parent with a history of childhood cataracts
- Genetic syndromes like Down syndrome
- Infections during pregnancy like: Rubella (German measles), Toxoplasmosis, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Syphilis & Herpes
- Metabolic & systemic disorders such as Galactosemia, Diabetes in pregnancy and Hypocalcemia (low calcium levels)
- In some cases, congenital cataracts occur without any identifiable cause.
**Even with no family history or maternal infections, a baby may still develop cataracts**
Signs & Symptoms
Congenital cataracts may not always be noticeable immediately, but certain signs can indicate a problem with a baby’s vision. Parents should watch for the following symptoms:
- Cloudy or white spots in the pupil that do not go away
- Poor visual response, such as not focusing on faces or objects
- Rapid or uncontrolled eye movements (nystagmus)
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- A noticeable difference in vision between both eyes
- Squinting or difficulty tracking objects
- One eye appearing misaligned or weaker than the other (lazy eye or amblyopia)
- No red-eye reflex in photos (one or both eyes appear white instead of red)
If a baby shows any of these signs, an immediate eye examination is necessary to prevent long-term vision impairment.
How Are Congenital Cataracts Treated?
The treatment for congenital cataracts depends on the severity, size, and impact on vision. In many cases, early surgical intervention is necessary to prevent permanent vision impairment.
Cataract Surgery for Babies & Young Children
- Surgery is recommended if the cataract significantly affects vision.
- The procedure involves removing the cloudy lens to allow light to reach the retina.
- Unlike adults, intraocular lenses (IOLs) may not always be implanted in infants due to their developing eyes.
Corrective Lenses & Glasses After Surgery
- If an IOL is not implanted, the child may need special prescription glasses or contact lenses to help focus light properly.
- In cases where an IOL is implanted, glasses may still be needed for near or distance vision correction.
Vision Therapy & Follow-Up Care
- Post-surgery, children may require vision therapy to develop normal eyesight.
- Regular eye check-ups are essential to monitor vision improvement and detect any complications.
Treating Lazy Eye (Amblyopia)
- If the cataract was present in only one eye, the brain may ignore the weaker eye, leading to lazy eye (amblyopia).
- Treatment options include patching the stronger eye to force the weaker eye to develop properly.
Long-Term Eye Care
- Children who have had cataract surgery may need ongoing vision correction and monitoring throughout their lives.
- Wearing UV-protective sunglasses and maintaining good eye hygiene can help protect eye health.
Can Congenital Cataracts Be Prevented?
While not all congenital cataracts can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk of their occurrence:
- Prenatal Care – Regular check-ups during pregnancy help monitor fetal health and detect potential issues early.
- Vaccination Before Pregnancy – Getting vaccinated against rubella (German measles) and other infections can prevent virus-related congenital cataracts.
- Managing Maternal Health Conditions – Pregnant women with diabetes or other metabolic disorders should maintain proper medical care to prevent complications.
- Avoiding Harmful Medications & Toxins – Certain drugs and environmental exposures during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects, including congenital cataracts. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication while pregnant.
- Genetic Counseling – If there is a family history of congenital cataracts, genetic screening can help assess the risk for future pregnancies.
- Early Newborn Eye Screening – A comprehensive eye exam at birth can help detect cataracts early, allowing for prompt treatment and better visual outcomes.
Although not all cases can be prevented, taking these steps can lower the chances of congenital cataracts and improve early detection.
Final Thoughts
Congenital cataracts can severely impact a child’s vision if not diagnosed and treated in time. Delayed treatment can lead to permanent vision loss, lazy eye, or developmental delays. Early surgical intervention, corrective lenses, and vision therapy can help restore clear vision and improve a child’s quality of life.
If your child is showing signs of blurry vision, white spots in the eyes, or difficulty focusing, don’t wait. Timely diagnosis and expert care are crucial.
Cataract Surgery at EyeMantra can help. Book your free appointment now at +91 9711116605!
Ensure your child’s best possible vision—act today!
