Persistent primary vitreous: A report on 2 rare pediatric cases

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Medicine
• Medical Genetics

Background:

• Persistence of the fetal vasculature (PFV) is a rare congenital ocular malformation with an unknown etiology.
• PFV presents a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, impacting visual prognosis variably.
• Diagnosis requires thorough ocular examination, sometimes under general anesthesia, especially in infants.

Observation:

• Two male patients, a 3-month-old infant and a 4-year-old child, with PFV were evaluated.
• The condition ranged from mild forms with no visual impairment to severe presentations involving multiple ocular structures.
• Associated systemic syndromes were considered, necessitating comprehensive pediatric examinations.

Findings:

• PFV can present with diverse ocular anomalies and varying degrees of visual impairment.
• Associated conditions and systemic involvement are critical factors influencing management and prognosis.
• Early and targeted surgical and medical interventions are key components of personalized treatment plans.

Implications:

• This case series underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis of PFV in pediatric patients.
• Comprehensive evaluation, including systemic assessment, is vital for identifying co-occurring conditions.
• Timely and individualized management strategies can significantly enhance visual outcomes for children with PFV.