Childhood cataracts
Overview
Cataracts occur when changes in the lens of the eye cause it to become less transparent (clear). This results in cloudy or misty vision.
Symptoms
In children, cataracts can affect 1 or both eyes. Cloudy patches in the lens can sometimes get bigger and more can develop, resulting in the child's vision becoming increasingly affected. As well as poor vision, cataracts can also cause "wobbling eyes" and asquint, where the eyes point in different directions. When your child is very young, it can be difficult to spot signs of cataracts. But your baby's eyes will be routinely examined at their newborn physical screening examination within 72 hours of birth, and again when they're 6 to 8 weeks old. If a congenital cataract is suspected at the newborn examination, a specialist eye doctor will see your baby within 2 weeks of the examination. If a congenital cataract is suspected at the 6 to 8 week examination, a specialist eye doctor will see your baby by the time they're 11 weeks old. Sometimes cataracts can develop in children after these screening tests. It's particularly important to spot cataracts in children quickly because early treatment can reduce the risk of long-term vision problems. You should visit a GP or tell your health visitor if you have any concerns about your child's eyesight. Read more about thesymptoms of childhood cataractsanddiagnosing childhood cataracts.
Causes
There are a number of reasons why a child may be born with cataracts or develop them while they're still young. But in many cases it is not possible to determine the exact cause. Possible causes include: a genetic fault inherited from the child's parents that caused the lens to develop abnormallycertain genetic conditions, includingDown's syndromecertain infections picked up by the mother during pregnancy, includingrubellaandchickenpoxan injury to the eye after birth Read more about thecauses of childhood cataracts.
Prevention
It's not usually possible to prevent cataracts, particularly those that are inherited (run in the family). But following the advice of your midwife or a GP to avoid infections during pregnancy (including making sure all your vaccinations are up to date before getting pregnant) may reduce the chances of your child being born with cataracts. If you previously had a baby with childhood cataracts and are planning another pregnancy, you may wish to speak with a GP about whether genetic counselling would be appropriate. Genetic counselling can help couples who may be at risk of passing an inherited condition on to their child. Read more aboutinfections in pregnancyandgenetic and genomic testing.