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Hyphema and elevated intraocular pressure in a neonate
Kurt A Schwiesow1, Gary R Diamond
1Ophthalmology Department, Drexel University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
|June 23, 2004
Summary
Neonatal hyphema, a collection of blood in the eye, can occur after birth. Prompt treatment with medications effectively resolved this condition in a newborn, normalizing eye pressure and clearing the blood.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Neonatal hyphema is a rare condition characterized by blood in the anterior chamber of the eye.
- It can lead to elevated intraocular pressure and potential vision impairment if not managed promptly.
Observation:
- A term-born female neonate presented with a 20% hyphema in one eye, 12 hours after vaginal delivery.
- The affected eye exhibited elevated intraocular pressure measuring 46 mm Hg.
Findings:
- The neonate received a combination of intravenous and topical medications for treatment.
- Intraocular pressure normalized within 6 hours of initiating treatment.
- Complete resolution of the hyphema occurred within 72 hours.
Implications:
- This case highlights the efficacy of timely medical intervention in managing neonatal hyphema.
- Aggressive treatment can prevent long-term visual complications associated with elevated intraocular pressure in neonates.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes in neonatal ophthalmologic emergencies.