Neonatal Cataracts

In the United States,1.2 to 6 babies out of every 10,000 are born with cloudy lenses known as neonatal or congenital cataracts; a condition that can cause severe visual impairments if not treated within a few months of birth, states Drs. Bashour, Manassa and Gerontis.

Causes

• Babies born with one cataract are rare, and it is most likely due to infection or abnormal eye development. Cataracts in both eyes are commonly inherited, or can be a symptom of more serious genetic diseases such as Down and Edward syndromes, according to Web MD.

Types of Congenital Cataracts

• There are four types of congenital cataracts: anterior polar and cerulean cataracts are most often inherited and too small to require surgery or cause visual impairments. Posterior polar and nuclear cataracts are found in the central and back portions of the lens, and are often larger and may require surgery, according to All About Vision.

Treatment

• For cataracts that require surgery, the British Journal of Ophthalmology states that the operation should be performed 4 to 6 weeks after birth for optimal results. Cataracts that are too small for surgery should be closely monitored by an ophthalmologist throughout childhood.

Complications

• According to WebMD, about 10 percent of surgical cases cause a rise in intraocular pressure (glaucoma). Other complications that can arise are lazy eye (amblyopia), cross eyes (strabismus) and shaky gaze (nystagmus), as stated by Ms. Haddrill and Dr. Slonim.

Prognosis

• The prognosis for children with congenital cataracts is good. Children born with one cataract have a 40 percent chance of having a visual acuity of 20/60 or better, while children born with two cataracts have a 70 percent chance of having a visual acuity of 20/60 or better, according to Web MD.