Cataracts, childhood - Diagnosing cataracts in children

It is important childhood cataracts are diagnosed as early as possible because early treatment can significantly reduce the risk of long term vision problems.

Newborn screening

As part of the UK Healthy Child Programme, your baby's eyes will be routinely examined within 72 hours of birth and again when they are six to eight weeks old.

Childhood cataracts are among the conditions screened for during these examinations.

During screening your baby's eyes are checked by looking at their general appearance and how they move. If your baby’s eye looks cloudy, it could be a sign they have cataracts.

Vision tests for older babies and children

Although cataracts can be present from birth, they sometimes don't develop until a child is older. Visit your GP or tell your health visitor if you have any concerns about your child's eyesight at any stage.

You should also make sure your child has routine eye tests to look for any problems with their vision. All children under the age of 16 are entitled to free sight tests, which they should have about every two years.

Read more about vision tests for children and NHS eye care services.

Referral to a specialist

If it is thought your baby or child may have cataracts, they will usually be referred to hospital to see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible. An ophthalmologist is a doctor who specialises in eye conditions and their treatment.

Before the ophthalmologist examines your baby, they will apply drops to their eyes to dilate (widen) their pupils. The drops will not hurt your baby, and the effect will wear off after a few hours.

The ophthalmologist will then examine your baby's eyes using an ophthalmoscope (a medical instrument that has a light on the end and produces a magnified image of the eye). This shines a bright light into your child’s eyes and enables the ophthalmologist to look inside them.

The ophthalmologist may diagnose cataracts if they can see the cataracts in the lens or if the examination shows a poor 'red reflex' in the pupil. The red reflex is like a reflection from the back of the eye similar to the red eye effect sometimes seen in flash photography. If the examination shows no red reflex, or a weak one, it may mean there is cloudiness in the lens.

If your child is diagnosed with cataracts, the ophthalmologist will discuss the treatment options with you. Read more about treating childhood cataracts.