CONGENITAL ANOMALIES

 The uveal tract, which consists of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid, is responsible for providing blood and oxygen to the retina, and maintaining the shape of the eye. Congenital anomalies of the uveal tract refer to the abnormal development of the uveal tract during prenatal development. These anomalies can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss some of the common congenital anomalies of the uveal tract, their causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Aniridia

Aniridia is a congenital anomaly characterized by the absence or underdevelopment of the iris, the colored part of the eye that controls the amount of light entering the eye. It is caused by a genetic mutation on chromosome 11. The symptoms of Aniridia include:

  1. Vision loss: This can be severe or complete vision loss in one or both eyes.
  2. Nystagmus: This is an involuntary movement of the eyes.
  3. Photophobia: This is an abnormal sensitivity to light.
  4. Glaucoma: This is an increase in the pressure inside the eye, which can lead to vision loss.

Aniridia is treated with eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery to control the pressure inside the eye and prevent further vision loss.

Coloboma

Coloboma is a congenital anomaly characterized by a gap or cleft in the iris, ciliary body, or choroid. It is caused by a failure of the embryonic fissure to close during prenatal development. The symptoms of Coloboma include:

  1. Vision loss: This can be severe or complete vision loss in one or both eyes.
  2. Nystagmus: This is an involuntary movement of the eyes.
  3. Photophobia: This is an abnormal sensitivity to light.
  4. Cataract: This is a clouding of the lens inside the eye, which can lead to vision loss.

Coloboma is treated with eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery to remove the cataract and prevent further vision loss.

Iris Coloboma

Iris coloboma is a congenital anomaly characterized by a gap or cleft in the iris. It is caused by a failure of the embryonic fissure to close during prenatal development. The symptoms of Iris coloboma include:

  1. Vision loss: This can be severe or complete vision loss in one or both eyes, although it is rare.
  2. Nystagmus: This is an involuntary movement of the eyes.
  3. Photophobia: This is an abnormal sensitivity to light.
  4. Glaucoma: This is an increase in the pressure inside the eye, which can lead to vision loss.

Iris coloboma is treated with eye drops, laser therapy, or surgery to control the pressure inside the eye and prevent further vision loss.

Conclusion

The uveal tract, which consists of the iris, ciliary body, and choroid, plays a crucial role in providing blood and oxygen to the retina, and maintaining the shape of the eye. Congenital anomalies of the uveal tract can lead to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect a congenital anomaly of the uveal tract as early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further vision loss.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

ABETALIPOPROTEINEMIA (BASSEN-KORNZWEIG SYNDROME) Retinopathy

What is myopia?

Scleritis