Congenital Cataract

photo by Janelle Aby, MD
With a closer view, cloudiness within the pupil is clearly seen. Congenital cataracts require early intervention to preserve sight, so immediate referral to a pediatric ophthalmologist is indicated. It is important to remember that cataracts that are less dense may not be visibly cloudy, so any time red reflexes cannot be obtained on exam, even if the eye appears grossly normal, referral is required.

