Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 11, 2026

In vivo Structural Assessments of Ocular Disease in Rodent Models using Optical Coherence Tomography
07:44

In vivo Structural Assessments of Ocular Disease in Rodent Models using Optical Coherence Tomography

Published on: July 24, 2020

Ocular pathology in congenital heart disease

A M Mansour1, F F Bitar, E I Traboulsi

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon. dr.ahmad@cyberia.net.lb

Eye (London, England)
|June 9, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Congenital heart disease (CHD) significantly increases the risk of eye problems. Regular screening for ocular abnormalities is crucial for affected individuals.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology and Cardiology
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Clinical Genetics

Background:

  • Congenital heart disease (CHD) encompasses a range of structural heart abnormalities present at birth.
  • Previous research suggests a potential link between cardiac anomalies and ocular manifestations.
  • Understanding these associations is vital for comprehensive patient care and early detection of complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically document and analyze the spectrum of ocular findings in patients diagnosed with congenital heart disease (CHD).
  • To identify specific ocular abnormalities associated with different types of CHD and syndromic conditions.
  • To establish the prevalence of eye conditions in a cohort of CHD patients.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective study involving the examination of 240 consecutive patients with CHD by a single observer.
  • Independent geneticists identified syndromic conditions in the patient cohort.
  • Data collection included detailed ocular examinations and cardiac anomaly classification.

Main Results:

  • Common cardiac anomalies included septal defects, tetralogy of Fallot, and pulmonary stenosis.
  • Ocular findings were present in 55% of patients, with retinal vascular tortuosity, optic disc hypoplasia, and trichomegaly being most frequent.
  • Retinal vascular tortuosity showed a strong correlation with low hematocrit and arterial oxygen saturation.

Conclusions:

  • Patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) exhibit a high prevalence of ocular pathologies.
  • Routine ophthalmic screening is recommended for individuals with CHD to detect and manage associated eye abnormalities.
  • Early identification of ocular issues can contribute to improved patient outcomes and quality of life.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Iris Fixation via External Pentagram Suturing05:22

Iris Fixation via External Pentagram Suturing

Published on: May 5, 2022

Quantifying Inferior Vena Cava Compliance and Distensibility in an In Vivo Ovine Model Using 3D Angiography07:53

Quantifying Inferior Vena Cava Compliance and Distensibility in an In Vivo Ovine Model Using 3D Angiography

Published on: April 26, 2024

Related Concept Videos

Glaucoma: Overview01:25

Glaucoma: Overview

Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure that damages the retina and optic nerve, leading to irreversible blindness if left untreated. The human eye has various components, including the cornea, iris, pupil, lens, and optic nerve. Aqueous humor is secreted by the epithelium of the ciliary body in the posterior chamber and flows through the trabecular meshwork and canal of Schlemm, maintaining normal intraocular pressure. The trabecular meshwork and the canal...
Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment01:28

Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment

Angle-closure glaucoma, or closed-angle glaucoma, is an eye condition where the iris bulges out and blocks the iridocorneal angle, resulting in a buildup of aqueous humor and increased intraocular pressure. Immediate medical attention is necessary due to the sudden onset of symptoms. The treatment for angle-closure glaucoma includes short-term and long-term approaches. Short-term treatment involves using eye drops like pilocarpine to lower intraocular pressure by increasing aqueous humor...
Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways01:22

Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways

At the molecular level, visual signals trigger transformations in photopigment molecules, resulting in changes in the photoreceptor cell's membrane potential. The photon's energy level is denoted by its wavelength, with each specific wavelength of visible light associated with a distinct color. The spectral range of visible light, classified as electromagnetic radiation, spans from 380 to 720 nm. Electromagnetic radiation wavelengths exceeding 720 nm fall under the infrared category, whereas...