Dr. Leena paul

Dr.Jawahar Jyoti Kuli

Abstract

PURPOSE : To find proportion of childhood blindness, etiological factors & association with local or systemic diseases. so that preventable blindness can be dealt effectively.

METHODOLOGY :150 children having BCVA < 3/60 in better eye were included. History, general, systemic & ocular examination with nutritional status was assessed. VA testing was done by Snellen’s chart or clinically by HM, PL and PR also with Allen pictures in preschool children. In infants pupillary response, fixation & OKN were checked. Examination under GA for posterior segment evaluation & IOP estimation. RESULTS: Proportion of childhood blindness was 9.09%. Most(52.66%) cases were preventable/treatable. Hereditary causes constitutes 63.33%. Congenital cataract, refractive errors, microphthalmos, Vit. A deficiency, congenital glaucoma & trauma were causes of childhood blindness CONCLUSION : Obtaining data in child is challenging. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can prevent >50% of childhood blindness