Pediatric Glaucoma

Pediatric glaucoma can be a severe and visually debilitating disease in children.  In pediatric glaucoma the pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure) is too high for the health of the eye. When the pressure becomes too high it begins damaging internal structures of the eye like the optic nerve. The disease may be caused by a poorly developed drainage system within the eye. The disease process may be bilateral or associated with systemic disease. 

Treatment is generally focused on improving the drainage system within the eye through surgery to relieve the pressure. However, children often heal the surgical drainage site, thus resulting in the need for repeat surgery. In some cases, a laser can be used to lower the pressure as well. Anti-glaucoma eye drops are also used in conjunction with surgery.

For more information visit the Pediatric Glaucoma and Cataract Family Association website and a downloadable pdf for families with frequently asked questions about cataracts here.