Development of posterior subcapsular cataracts in asthmatic children

Pediatrics
|May 1, 1984
PubMed

Insights

Asthmatic children on long-term steroid therapy face a higher risk of developing posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSCC). Markedly delayed bone age alongside steroid use exceeding two years are key indicators for PSCC risk in these children.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatrics
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSCC) are a known complication of systemic corticosteroid therapy.
  • Identifying children with asthma at risk for PSCC is crucial for proactive management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate factors associated with systemic steroid administration that may influence PSCC development in asthmatic children.
  • To identify specific risk factors for PSCC in pediatric asthma patients undergoing steroid treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective evaluation of 40 asthmatic children receiving systemic steroids.
  • Assessment of steroid duration, dose, frequency of bursts, bone age retardation, and mode of administration.
  • Correlation of these factors with the presence or absence of PSCC.

Main Results:

  • Seven out of 40 (17.5%) asthmatic children developed PSCC.
  • All children with PSCC had received steroids for at least two years and exhibited markedly delayed bone age.
  • The combination of prolonged steroid use (≥2 years) and markedly delayed bone age was strongly associated with PSCC development.

Conclusions:

  • Asthmatic children on systemic steroids for two years or longer with markedly delayed bone age are at significantly increased risk for PSCC.
  • Duration of steroid therapy and bone age retardation are critical predictors for PSCC in this pediatric population.