How can newborns develop glaucoma?

Glaucoma in newborns is primarily caused by genetic factors, abnormal embryonic development, structural eye defects, neural crest cell abnormalities, and maternal influences during pregnancy. It is mostly a congenital condition, and early symptoms are often overlooked. If a newborn shows light sensitivity, excessive tearing, eyelid spasms, or corneal abnormalities, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

1. Genetic factors: Autosomal recessive inheritance is the main pattern. When both parents carry the disease-causing gene, the risk of their child developing glaucoma increases. Some cases have a clear family history of inheritance, with gene mutations disrupting normal eye development.

2. Abnormal embryonic development: The first three months of pregnancy are critical for eye development. Incomplete differentiation or abnormal development of the fetal anterior chamber angle tissue can obstruct aqueous humor drainage, leading to elevated intraocular pressure, optic nerve damage, and ultimately glaucoma.

3. Structural eye defects: Congenital malformations of ocular structures such as the cornea, iris, and lens can disrupt the normal circulation pathway of aqueous humor, causing fluid accumulation and increased intraocular pressure. This type of lesion arises from structural developmental defects.

4. Neural crest cell abnormalities: Neural crest cells play a key role in the development of the anterior chamber angle. Abnormal migration or differentiation of these cells can lead to dysfunction of the drainage angle, impairing aqueous humor outflow and triggering congenital glaucoma.

5. Maternal influences during pregnancy: Viral infections, inappropriate medication use, or exposure to toxic substances during pregnancy may interfere with fetal eye development, increasing the risk of neonatal glaucoma. These are considered environmental risk factors.

Regular observation of a newborn’s eye condition is important in daily care. Avoid exposing the eyes to strong light, maintain good ocular hygiene, refrain from rubbing the baby’s eyes, and prevent liquids from entering the eyes during feeding to ensure a gentle and protective environment for eye health.