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Systemic and local associated disorders in children with congenital cataracts-a retrospective analysis
Rashid Baig1, Asma Rahman1, Hamzah Jehanzeb1
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Aga Khan University and Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan.
Insights
Congenital cataracts in infants are frequently linked to other health issues. Early detection and a team-based approach are crucial for managing these complex pediatric eye conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
- Medical Genetics
Background:
- Congenital cataracts represent a significant cause of visual impairment in children.
- Understanding associated systemic and local disorders is vital for comprehensive patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the spectrum of systemic and local disorders accompanying congenital cataracts in infants.
- To identify the prevalence of various associated conditions in a tertiary care setting.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective chart review was performed on pediatric patients (<12 months) who underwent lens aspiration for congenital cataracts.
- Data collected included demographics, family history, maternal illnesses, and co-occurring disorders.
- Statistical analysis was conducted using RStudio.
Main Results:
- Eighty-one cases of congenital cataracts were analyzed, with bilateral cataracts being more prevalent (61.7%).
- Associated systemic conditions included cardiac (4.9%) and central nervous system anomalies (3.7%).
- Chromosomal anomalies and inborn errors of metabolism were each present in 3.7% of cases.
Conclusions:
- Congenital cataracts in infants present a substantial burden, often with multifactorial etiologies.
- The findings underscore the necessity for early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary management strategy for affected children.
Objective:
To assess the systemic and local disorders associated with congenital cataracts in children in a tertiary care setting.
Methods:
The retrospective study was conducted at the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, and comprised data from January 2014 to December 2019 of patients aged <12 months who underwent lens aspiration. Data on demographics, family history, maternal illness, and associated systemic and local disorders were collected through chart reviews. Unilateral and bilateral cataracts were stratified. Data was analysed using RStudio.
Results:
Of the 84 cases evaluated, 81(96.4%) were analysed after excluding incomplete records; 41(50.6%) boys and 40 (49.4%) girls. The median age at presentation was 6 months (interquartile range: 4-11 months). Bilateral cataracts were more common (n=50, 61.7%) than unilateral cataracts (n=31, 38.3%). Only 2 (2.5%) cases had a family history of congenital cataracts. Systemic associations included cardiac abnormalities (n=4, 4.9%), central nervous system anomalies (n=3, 3.7%), hearing impairment (n=1, 1.2%), and genitourinary malformations (n=1, 1.2%). Chromosomal anomalies (n=3, 3.7%) and inborn errors of metabolism (n=3, 3.7%) were also noted.
Conclusions:
The burden of congenital cataracts was significant and its aetiology was multifactorial, emphasising the need for early detection and a multidisciplinary approach to management.
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