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Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Whole Vitreous Humor Dissection for Vitreodynamic Analysis
Published on: May 24, 2015
[Persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous: a retrospective study]
Insights
Persistence and hyperplasia of the primary vitreous (PHPV) is a rare condition. Early diagnosis and management are crucial for improving visual outcomes in affected children.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Ophthalmology
- Congenital Ocular Malformations
Context:
- Persistence and hyperplasia of the primary vitreous (PHPV) is a rare congenital ocular malformation with an unknown etiology.
- This condition affects the development of ocular structures, potentially leading to significant visual impairment.
- Understanding the clinical characteristics and management outcomes is essential for pediatric ophthalmologists.
Purpose:
- To retrospectively analyze clinical data of children diagnosed with PHPV.
- To identify key factors influencing diagnosis, treatment, and visual prognosis.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of management strategies for PHPV.
Summary:
- A retrospective analysis included 56 eyes from 52 children with PHPV, categorized into anterior, posterior, mixed, and previously operated forms.
- Fifty eyes underwent surgical treatment, with an average follow-up of 32.5 months.
- At follow-up, 23% of eyes achieved a visual acuity of 20/200 or better, with 9% better than 20/100.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of early diagnosis and tailored management for improving visual outcomes in PHPV.
- Provides data on visual results following treatment, aiding in patient counseling and treatment planning.
- Contributes to the understanding of this rare condition, informing future research and clinical practice.
Objectives:
The persistence and hyperplasia of the primary vitreous is a rare ocular malformation whose origin remains unknown. The goal of this study was to retrospectively analyze the records of the children followed in our department and to note sex, antecedents, age and reason for the first consultation, side and ocular structures involved, treatment, follow-up, complications, and progression.
Methods:
The initial clinical examination was noted and completed by the examination under general anesthesia and the surgical or nonsurgical treatment proposed.
Results:
Fifty-six eyes of 52 children were included: 19 anterior forms, four posterior, 25 mixed, and eight eyes already operated on in other centers. Fifty eyes had surgical treatment. At the end of follow-up, 13 eyes had a vision equal to or greater than 20/200 (23%) including five that were better than 20/100 (9%). Average follow-up was 32.5 months.
Conclusions:
Persistence of the fetal vascular system is a group of complex ocular malformations requiring an early diagnosis and well-adapted management.
