Stickler syndrome is a genetic condition that affects the joints, hearing, and vision. In addition, collagen, the body’s connective tissue, is affected. Collagen is a major component of the cornea and sclera of the eye.
When It Comes to Stickler Syndrome, Who Is at Risk?
Stickler syndrome is inherited from one’s parents in some cases. A parent who has Stickler syndrome has a 50% probability of passing it on to their child. Others, on the other hand, have no relatives with Stickler syndrome. In those cases, the syndrome was caused by a new mutation in their genes.
Symptoms of Stickler Syndrome
Stickler syndrome can cause vision difficulties in children that are more common in elderly people.
Nearsightedness
Stickler syndrome is associated with extreme nearsightedness in children. They can only perceive objects that are near them.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of the eye that some children are born with.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma can develop in children with Stickler syndrome. Glaucoma is a condition in which the optic nerve is damaged.
Detachment of the retina
In Stickler syndrome, children’s vision can also be jeopardized by detached retinas. If they observe a sudden beginning of the following symptoms, they should see their ophthalmologist right away:
● floaters (plural) (small specks, dots, circles, lines or cobwebs in the field of vision)
● flashes (flashing lights or lightning streaks in the field of vision)
● In their peripheral (side) vision, they see dark shadows.
Diagnosis and Treatment for Stickler Syndrome
Stickler syndrome is diagnosed by an ophthalmologist based on a physical examination and medical history. The issues linked with the syndrome are detected through a comprehensive eye exam.
The clear gel that fills the eyeball might have an unusual appearance at times. This is because the vitreous of the eye is this gel. During an eye exam, the unusual appearance is prominent.
Although Stickler syndrome cannot be cured, ophthalmologists can address the illness’ effects on the eyes.
Treatment for cataracts
The treatment for cataracts in babies differs based on the condition of the child. Surgery is frequently advised at a young age. Many factors influence this decision, including the infant’s health and whether or not one or both eyes have cataracts.
If the child has a cataract in both eyes, surgery may have to be postponed for years. It may never be necessary, depending on the severity of the situation. However, if a cataract is present in only one eye, the infant’s visual system may develop improperly. Serious vision difficulties and even vision loss might occur if not treated.
Treatment for retinal detachment
Stickler syndrome patients are more likely to develop a detached retina. Therefore, they should be aware of the symptoms of a detached retina in case one occurs. If your retina becomes detached, you will need surgery to reattach it.
Glaucoma
Stickler syndrome glaucoma is typically treated with prescription eyedrops. In some circumstances, surgery may be required.
Nearsightedness
Vision can typically be corrected with glasses or contact lenses for severe nearsightedness. In some circumstances, high myopia can be treated with refractive surgery.
