Visual Comorbidities Associated with Childhood Glaucoma

Pediatric glaucoma is frequently associated with other comorbidities that can have an impact on the final visual and functional outcome. These comorbidities may arise from the glaucoma itself or as a complication of its treatment. For example, it is not uncommon to encounter a child with pediatric glaucoma who has well-controlled intraocular pressure but still suffers from severe visual loss due to amblyopia. Proper refractive correction and prompt treatment of amblyopia are necessary as early as possible and in line with intraocular pressure control to avoid such a permanent disability. Moreover, visual axis opacification may occur as a result of cataract, corneal clouding, or opacification, and their management in the presence of glaucoma, even if controlled, is quite challenging. Additionally, the visual outcome might be jeopardized by retinal complications such as retinal detachment. Moreover, ocular misalignment frequently occurs in childhood glaucoma, particularly in the setting of amblyopia and with the use of glaucoma drainage devices. The misalignment and other comorbidities are known to have pedagogical and psychological impacts that might affect the quality of life of these children and their parents.