The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences
Abstract
Congenital and infantile cataracts are characterized by opacity of the ocular lens, causing decreased visual acuity and inducing amblyopia. Treatment of pediatric patients is complicated because the eye is still growing during childhood, and the mind-eye connection is developing during this time. Anything that obstructs visual input from the eye to the brain raises risks of permanent visual deficit. Treatment includes immediate cataract extraction; this is sometimes followed by intraocular implantation of an artificial lens. After surgery, treatment continues in the form of occlusive patching therapy, corrective spectacles, or cycloplegic eye drops. Oftentimes, several methods are used simultaneously for maximal outcomes. This literature review discusses treatment options for infantile and congenital cataracts, analyzes the risks and benefits of the available options, and evaluates which options have the most successful long-term outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Breindy Hecht. (2024). What Are the Best Treatment Options for Infantile Cataracts?. The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences, 17(2), 11-15. Retrieved from https://touroscholar.touro.edu/sjlcas/vol17/iss2/3
