What Is Infantile Glaucoma?

Infantile glaucoma is the term used to describe glaucoma that appears in a child younger than age 3. The disorder occurs when the eye's drainage system does not develop properly, which leads to increased pressure from built-up fluid, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Infantile glaucoma is rare; about one in 10,000 babies has the condition, according to Bausch & Lomb.

• An infant focusing on an object.

Causes

• Infantile glaucoma is commonly an inherited condition. If a baby's mother and father both have a family history of glaucoma, he has an increased risk of developing the condition. Sometimes other eye disorders or injury can cause glaucoma.

Types

• When the eye does not drain fluid properly, primary glaucoma is diagnosed. Secondary glaucoma is diagnosed when there is an overproduction of fluid in the eye, or when a combination of factors cause excess fluid, according to pediatrician Alan Greene. Glaucoma may affect one or both eyes.

Identification

• Infantile glaucoma may or may not cause noticeable symptoms. Tearing and tight blinking may be symptoms of glaucoma in babies. Infants with the disorder may seem to dislike sunlight and bright lights. The eyes may appear large, clouded, swollen or red, according to Dr. Greene.

Treatment

• Surgery is usually the recommended treatment for infantile glaucoma. A surgical procedure may be performed to improve drainage of fluid from the eye, according to the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Oral medications and eye drops may be necessary to control the amount of fluid retained in the eye.

Warning

• Infantile glaucoma can cause damage to the optic nerve and vision loss. Have your child's eyes checked promptly if he shows signs of infantile glaucoma. Vision cannot be restored once it is lost, but early detection and treatment can prevent further vision loss. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends doctors perform vision screenings during the newborn period and at all subsequent well-child visits. If you have a strong family history of glaucoma, ask your doctor what kind of eye examination schedule you should follow for your baby.