TITLE:
Pediatric Cataract: Epidemiological, Clinical, and Therapeutic Aspects at the Pediatric Ophthalmology Unit of the Bouaké University Hospital (CHU)
AUTHORS:
Liliane Ella Godé, Zana Diabaté, Opeyemi Raheemotu Llahi Babayeju, Prestige Andromaque Koko Koffi, Yves Ouattara
KEYWORDS:
Childhood Cataract, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Bouaké, Treatment
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Ophthalmology,
Vol.16 No.4,
October
16,
2026
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Pediatric cataract encompassing both congenital and juvenile forms, is defined as a partial or total opacification of the lens present at birth or developing during childhood. This condition places the child at risk of amblyopia, which can sometimes be severe. The aim of this study was to gain a better understanding of pediatric cataract and contribute to improving its management. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive, longitudinal, retrospective study conducted over a period of 8 months and 24 days at the pediatric ophthalmology unit of the Bouaké University Hospital. The study covered 30 operated eyes, analyzing sociodemographic and clinical data as well as management modalities. Results: A male predominance was observed, with a sex ratio of 4:1. The mean age was 10.47 years, with a median of 11 years (range: 2 to 17 years). Decreased visual acuity was the most frequent reason for consultation (69.99%), followed by leukocoria (23.33%). Congenital cataract was the most common type, affecting 54% of patients. All patients underwent surgery using the phacoemulsification technique, and 83% received an intraocular lens implant. The majority (56.64%) were followed up postoperatively for 12 weeks. Conclusion: Improving the hospital-based management of pediatric cataract is feasible and requires consideration of epidemiological and clinical aspects, as well as the surgical technique employed.