Congenital cataract

Congenital cataract
Bilateral cataracts in an infant due to congenital rubella syndrome.
Specialty	Medical genetics, ophthalmology

Congenital cataracts are a lens opacity that is present at birth. Congenital cataracts occur in a broad range of severity. Some lens opacities do not progress and are visually insignificant, others can produce profound visual impairment.

Congenital cataracts may be unilateral or bilateral. They can be classified by morphology, presumed or defined genetic cause, presence of specific metabolic disorders, or associated ocular anomalies or systemic findings.^[1]

Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition. For children under the age of two years old whose vision is affected by the cataracts in both eyes, surgical options include intraocular lens implantation or a lensectomy.^[2]

Congenital cataracts are considered to be a significant cause of childhood blindness. This condition is considered 'treatable' with early intervention and compared to other types of childhood visual loss problems, however, in parts of the world where treatment options are not available such as some low-income countries, the condition may go untreated and the person may lose their vision.^[2] Early in life treatment is important, especially during development, in order that the person's eyes and visual system develops normally.^[2]