# 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.

## Key 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.