How to Treat Congenital Cataract

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Congenital cataracts are a birth defect that causes an opacification of the lens. Although it may not be identified until later in life, if it isn't detected in the infancy stage, then permanent visual loss is possible. The most common causes for this condition is intrauterine infections, metabolic disorders and genetically transmitted.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step1

Get the proper workup and examinations. To determine if you have unilateral cataracts (in one eye) or bilateral cataracts (in both eyes) lab work will be done. The first thing that will happen for both is a prenatal and family history questionnaire. Then the eye(s) will be dilated for a slit lamp examination. After that, a dilated fundus exam is done followed by a genetics evaluation. Other lab work may be ordered by your doctor.

Step2

Take steps to prevent amblyopia in children with proper nutrition. This will be a step that is highlighted by the eye doctor when congenital cataract is found. The doctor will advice you on steps that is needed to prevent amblyopia.

Step3

Get cataract surgery. This is done when the child is less than 17 weeks old and the condition has been found early in life. The earlier the surgery can be done, the more amblyopia can be prevented. This surgery also can't be performed too early because of the risk of glaucoma.

Step4

Get extracapsular cataract extraction. This procedure is done to children using a intraocular instrument. It is also a procedure of choice to try and extract the cataract from the eyes.

Step5

Get a follow up ophthalmology consultation. This is to prevent permanent visual loss. Additional genetics evaluations are do to detect any anomalies that may be present. Also, there will be a restriction of galactose from the patient's diet. Frequent glaucoma screenings will have to be done throughout the patient's lifespan. Special care to prevent amblyopia is also a concern that is addressed from frequent eye examinations.