Definition:

Buphthalmos is a congenital (inherited) form of glaucoma where the increased pressure is present at birth. High pressure in an eye of a child can also make the eye grow larger than normal. A child with bigger eyes usually becomes myopic and will need spectacle lenses to see clearly. Another known side effect is the tendency to develop a squint or lazy eye.

Who can get it?

Buphthalmos is inherited but is rare.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include abnormally large eyes, a haze on the clear portion of the eye (cornea), excessive tearing, photophobia (light sensitivity), and blindness.

An examination by an eye doctor may reveal increased intraocular pressure and cupping of the optic disk is not uncommon.

What is the treatment?

To save sight, surgical intervention is necessary. Procedures include a Goniotomy, Trabeculotomy, or Trabeculectomy to relieve excess pressure.

Add'l keywords/misspellings:

bufthalmos infantile glaucoma enlarged eye