Cataracts

Abstract

Infantile cataracts are important treatable causes of childhood blindness worldwide. While a majority of infantile cataracts are either idiopathic or familial and isolated, some can be associated with systemic conditions including congenital infection, teratogenic exposures, metabolic, and genetic syndromes. In some cases, cataracts may be the presenting signs of these conditions. In general, unilateral cataracts occur in isolation and do not require additional evaluation for systemic disease. Similarly, bilateral autosomal dominant familial cataracts are typically not associated with systemic disease and do not require additional evaluation. Children with bilateral cataracts who do not have a known family history of heritable cataracts require a thorough evaluation for recognized associated conditions, such as chromosomal abnormalities, metabolic disorders, and infectious etiologies. Treatment is dictated by the degree of visual significance of the cataract and frequently involves surgical removal of the opacified lens.