Congenital ocular and its adnexal anomalies among Indian pediatric age groups

TL;DR

This study examines the causes of eye problems in Indian children aged 0-12 and highlights the role of consanguinity and other risk factors.

Contribution

The study provides insights into the prevalence of congenital ocular anomalies and their association with consanguinity in Indian pediatric populations.

Findings

Nasolacrimal duct anomalies were the most common (32%), followed by congenital esotropia (14%).

61% of cases were linked to consanguineous marriages, with 41% being second-degree and 59% third-degree.

Bilateral involvement was observed in 55% of the 56 patients studied.

Abstract

An analysis of the congenital etiologies of ocular morbidity in children of age 0-12 years is of interest. Hence, this study was conducted over a period of 2
years from Jan 2021- Dec 2023 at RL Jalappa Hospital and Research center that is attached to Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College, Tamaka, Kolar, Karnataka, India. Out
of 56 patients, 57% were male and 43% were female children. 31 (55%) of mothers belonged to age group between 20-30 years and 24 (43%) between 31-40 years and 1(2%)
between 41-50 years. Out of 56 patients, 14 (25%) of them had positive family history. 34 (61%) of them had consanguious marriage. 14 parents (41%) out of 34 are
married to second degree consanguinity (brother/sister/grandparent/grandchild) and 20 (59%) belonged to third degree consanguinity (aunt/uncle/niece/nephew/great-grandparent/great-grandchild).
Bilateral involvement was seen in 31 (55%). Nasolacrimal duct anomalies were found to be the most common (32%) followed by congenital esotropia (14%). Education,
awareness, counseling about risks of consanguinity and other risk factors such as maternal age, infections, medications during pregnancy, vaccination must be a
routine practice in healthcare set up. This can significantly reduce morbidity and prevent blindness.