Congenital Cataract

CongenitalCongenital cataract is a hereditary opacification of the lens that has been present since birth. Congenital cataractsCongenital cataract often occur sporadically or are inherited in an autosomal recessive, dominant or X-linked manner. Furthermore, syndrome-related congenitalCongenital cataracts are common. They are often combined with other eye malformations, for example with microphthalmos and coloboma of the uvea in trisomy 13 or 15. Alport syndrome and Hallermann-Streiff syndrome also manifest with early developing cataracts. In Down syndrome, a cataract usually does not develop until the age of 10. Another reason is Fabry disease. A persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV), i.e. persistence of the primary vitreous, can also lead to a cataract. Lens opacification in congenitalCongenital cataracts can vary in severity. Peripheral opacities are common and hardly noticeable. A cataracta zonularis or cataracta coronaria and coerulea may also be present. However, amblyopia can develop, especially if it is unilateral. There is a risk of secondary glaucoma after surgery at an early age (< 9 months). Surgery for congenital cataractsCongenital cataract requires modified vitrectomy techniques and is performed at specialized centers.