Neonatal examination of the eye: an overview

Abstract

Eyesight is often regarded as the most valuable human sense. Thus, the identification and prevention of ophthalmic pathologies in neonates is a key component of the newborn examination in order to commence the management of ophthalmic conditions before they persist and lead to irreversible damage. In the UK, the standard Newborn Infant Physical Examination (NIPE) comprises an assessment of the eye in order to identify features such as abnormal eye movements, decreased visual acuity and symmetry of gaze that may point to early pathologies. As practitioners, it is important to identify signs that warrant further specialist examination, with appropriate follow-up, or features that can actually be normal in infants and children to reassure parents and caregivers. This article aims to provide an overview of this examination.