What are the signs of possible cataract in a baby or child?
Signs of possible cataract or other eye problems in babies and children include:
Babies and children should be seen by a GP or local optometrist for a prompt assessment and referral to an ophthalmologist.
Are you a health professional? Referral guidelines in each state can be found here.
Parents with urgent concerns may also present to a local Emergency Department for triage.
Links:
- A white spot on child's pupil, seen either directly by looking, or in a photograph (this is also called a 'lack of red reflex')
- Crossed eyes, turned eyes, wandering eyes after 4 months of age (even if it only happens sometimes).
Babies and children should be seen by a GP or local optometrist for a prompt assessment and referral to an ophthalmologist.
Are you a health professional? Referral guidelines in each state can be found here.
Parents with urgent concerns may also present to a local Emergency Department for triage.
Links:
- This resource 'A Glint or A Squint' has more information aimed at parents about early signs of eye problems.
- Guidelines from the Royal Children's Hospital about white pupils in photographs (lack of red reflex)
Better diagnosis of vision problems in babies
Cataract Kids Australia is working for improvements to the screening and diagnosis of vision problems in Australian babies and children. We hear too many stories of late diagnosis of cataract in babies, which can cause lasting vision impairment.
For more information about our advocacy for vision screening and diagnosis contact us.
For more information about our advocacy for vision screening and diagnosis contact us.