Clinical Profile Of Congenital Eye Abnormalities In Children Aged 0-5 Years And Their Correlation With Demographic Factors

Abstract

Background: Congenital eye abnormalities encompass a wide range of structural and functional defects present at birth, contributing significantly to childhood visual impairment and blindness. Understanding their clinical profile and demographic associations is essential for early detection and prevention. Aim of the study: To evaluate the clinical spectrum of congenital eye abnormalities in children aged 0-5 years and analyze their correlation with demographic factors. Methods: This hospital-based observational study was conducted over one year in Bangladesh. Eighty-two pediatric patients presenting with congenital ocular anomalies were included. Data on clinical features, antenatal history, and demographic variables were collected using a structured questionnaire. Comprehensive ophthalmologic examinations were performed, and findings were analyzed using SPSS v26.0. Result: Children aged 4-5 years constituted the largest group (56.10%), with a male predominance (64.63%). The most common presenting symptom was decreased ocular vision (18.29%), followed by watering of eyes (13.41%). Congenital cataract was the most prevalent anomaly (46.74%), followed by coloboma of the iris and choroid (33.62%), and anophthalmos (19.68%). Bilateral involvement was more frequent than unilateral presentation. Conclusion: Congenital cataract, coloboma, and whole globe anomalies are the predominant ocular abnormalities in early childhood. Timely screening and intervention strategies are essential to minimize long-term visual disability, especially in resource-limited settings.