Glaucoma in infancy and childhood

Abstract

Glaucoma in infancy and childhood is arare disease. An immediate diagnosis and treatment are absolutely necessary to prevent blindness of affected children. Childhood glaucoma is characterized by aheterogeneous phenotype: besides primary congenital glaucoma, secondary types often exist and the individualized treatment requires an experienced interdisciplinary team. The pathogenesis is not always discernible and genetic alterations sometimes cause the disease. Asurgical procedure is usually necessary to lower the intraocular pressure. Refractive and orthoptic care are equally important to avoid amblyopia. This article gives an overview of childhood glaucoma and outlines the most important diagnostic and therapeutic aspects.