Pattern of oculomotor and visual function in children with hydrocephalus

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Neurology
• Neurosurgery

Background:

• Hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by excess cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, can impact neurological development and function in children.
• Ocular motility disturbances, optic nerve changes, and refractive errors are potential complications associated with hydrocephalus and its treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate ocular motility disturbances, optic nerve changes, and refractive errors in children with hydrocephalus.
• To compare these findings in children who underwent surgical treatment versus those who did not.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 63 children diagnosed with hydrocephalus between 2007 and 2019.
• Inclusion of comprehensive orthoptic, ophthalmic examinations, and brain magnetic resonance imaging for all subjects.

Main Results:

• Esotropia (51.2%) and exotropia (34.1%) were common motility disorders, with associated sixth (14.2%) and fourth (6.3%) nerve palsies.
• Optic disc abnormalities (20.6%) and significant refractive errors (30.1%), primarily hyperopia, were observed.
• Ocular motility disorders were significantly more prevalent in surgically treated patients (shunt surgery and revision) compared to non-surgically treated individuals (P=0.041 and P=0.032).

Conclusions:

• Ocular motility disorders and visual dysfunction are significant concerns in pediatric hydrocephalus.
• Regular ophthalmic evaluation is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring hydrocephalic children, aiding in disease management.