Orbital Disorders
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Congenital Developmental Anomalies Affecting the Eye and Orbit
The eyes and surrounding structures develop in utero through a complicated process. When the process goes wrong, it can lead to congenital eye anomalies. These malformations can arise from genetic mutations, environmental factors during pregnancy, and/or disruptions in the normal development of the eye during embryogenesis. Though rare (roughly 5 in 10,000 live births), infants and young children with these eye/orbit issues often require expertise in the ocular field. Experts in the field can help manage and treat these conditions, sometimes surgically if necessary.
Congenital/Developmental Anomalies
Some congenital eye malformations include:
- anophthalmia/no eye
- microphthalmia/small eye
- coloboma/failure of the optic fissure to close
- aniridia/absent or partial iris
- optic nerve hypoplasia/underdeveloped optic nerve
