Down syndrome (DS) is caused by a duplication of all, or part, of chromosome 21\u2014 making three copies of the chromosome rather than the usual two copies. The extra genetic material leads to certain physical changes in individuals with DS.<\/p>\r\n
Down syndrome is one of the most common chromosomal abnormalities in children.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n The frequency of DS is approximately 1 in every 800 births, with an increased frequency among older mothers.<\/p>\r\n With the specialized improvements in the quality of medical care and educational resources, individuals with DS can live a more productive, longer life.<\/p>\r\n According to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, more than 60 percent of children with DS have vision problems. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n Furthermore, the optical prescriptions<\/a> for children with DS are often in the higher range of far-sighted<\/a>, near-sighted<\/a> and astigmatism<\/a>, often requiring them to use specialty lenses<\/a> and frames.<\/p>\r\n Therefore, even with corrective eyeglasses for near or distant vision, the quality <\/i>of their vision may be affected as a result of reduced visual skills<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n Down syndrome affects the development of the eyes, which can impact the proper development of vision<\/a>. According to research, ocular disease<\/a> is prevalent in over 50 percent of patients<\/strong> with DS<\/strong>\u2014 from milder conditions such as tear duct abnormalities to severe diagnoses such as cataracts<\/a>, that can cause significant vision loss.<\/p>\r\n Frequent comprehensive eye exams, beginning from 6 months of age, are essential for individuals with DS. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n It is important to note that an eye exam<\/a> can be challenging for both the child and the doctor, it is therefore recommended to choose an eye doctor skilled in evaluating children with developmental delays.<\/p>\r\n Refractive errors<\/b> – Children with DS are more likely to need glasses than other children as a result of myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), and\/or astigmatism. A refractive error may develop early in life or later on.<\/p>\r\n Strabismus<\/a> and amblyopia<\/a><\/b> – Between 20 and 60 percent of individuals with DS have amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed-eyes). Esotropia<\/a> (inward eye turn) is most common, while exotropia<\/a> (outward eye turn) occurs less frequently. Strabismus often goes unnoticed or it may be hidden by the folds of skin between the eyes and the nose.<\/p>\r\n It is important to diagnose strabismus as early as possible, as crossed eyes can result in amblyopia, loss of stereopsis (the use of the two eyes together), or loss of depth perception. Amblyopia and strabismus may be treated with eyeglasses or vision therapy<\/a> (with or without patching), and\/or eye muscle surgery<\/a> (usually involving multiple procedures).<\/p>\r\n Keratoconus<\/b><\/a> – Approximately 30 percent of individuals with DS suffer from this condition that causes thinning of the cornea (front layer of the eye) and blurred vision. Keratoconus is usually diagnosed around puberty and regular monitoring is essential.<\/p>\r\n Cataracts<\/b> <\/a>– There is an increased incidence of congenital cataracts (present at birth) as well as acquired cataracts among the DS population. Cataracts cause a clouding of the lens inside the eye. The condition may progress slowly and should therefore be monitored regularly for proper management.<\/p>\r\n If cataracts are present early in childhood, they will prevent a clear image from being delivered to the brain, and the brain may therefore never \u201clearn\u201d to see. This can cause a severe form of amblyopia known as deprivational amblyopia. Surgical treatment for cataracts<\/a> is performed when necessary.<\/p>\r\n Glaucoma<\/b><\/a>– There is an increased incidence of infantile glaucoma among the DS population.\u00a0 Glaucoma results from elevated pressure within the eye and can lead to a significant loss of vision. Appropriate treatment depends on the severity of the condition, and may include medication, laser treatments, or surgery.<\/p>\r\n Blepharitis<\/b> <\/a>– Inflammation of the eyelids with redness at the edge of the lids and crusting around the lashes may cause dryness or burning. Eyelid hygiene<\/a> and topical antibiotics are typically used to treat this condition.<\/p>\r\n Tearing<\/b> – Excessive tears or watering of the eyes may occur as a result of a blocked or narrow drainage channel (nasolacrimal duct obstruction). This may require surgery for treatment.<\/p>\r\n Nystagmus<\/b> – An involuntary \u201cback-and-forth\u201d movement or shaking of the eyes that can affect vision clarity on a mild to a severe degree. While surgery may improve appearance, and botox injections are sometimes able to reduce the amount of visible movements, the outcomes are generally only temporary.<\/p>\r\n Unfortunately, children with DS often do not complain about their eye problems, either because they are unable to communicate that there is a problem, or because they simply don\u2019t notice a problem.<\/p>\r\n It is therefore essential that parents and caregivers be on the lookout for the following signs that may indicate a vision problem:<\/p>\r\n If your child has experienced any of these symptoms contact an eye doctor near you<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\r\n SEE RELATED: <\/strong>Vision and Special Needs<\/a><\/p>\r\n\n\tHow do vision problems affect children with DS?<\/b><\/h2>\r\n
When is an eye exam necessary?<\/b><\/h2>\r\n
Common vision conditions that affect individuals with DS<\/b><\/h2>\r\n
Signs of a vision problem<\/b><\/h2>\r\n
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