EXAMINING THE EYES OF CHILDREN AFFECTED WITH
IP
In a female newborn in whom the diagnosis
of IP is confirmed or strongly suspected, a dilated fundus
exam as soon after birth as the neonatologist thinks it is
safe is indicated. Sometimes, if there are any suspected
retinal abnormalities, an examination under anesthesia may
be required. The ophthalmologist should look at the optic
nerve head, the macula (in the center of the retina), and
the far peripheral retina where the typical pathologic
events tend to occur. This should be done before the baby
leaves the hospital.
In a small fraction of infants with IP, abnormal blood
vessels grow in the peripheral margins of the retina,
similar to the abnormalities that occur in Retinopathy of
Prematurity.
Severe retinal disease is often associated with brain
dysfunction and is a marker to pursue x-ray scanning
studies of the head. With respect to the eyes themselves,
some babies with IP, and even some older patients, might
benefit from laser treatment or freezing therapy
(cryopexie) in an effort to prevent retinal detachment or
vitreous hemorrhage from the consequences of the typical
retinal neovascularization that occurs in this disorder.
Ophthalmologists with IP
expertise
Morton F. Goldberg,
M.D.
William Holland Wilmer Professor of Ophthalmology
The Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Tel: 410 955-6846
Fax: 410 955-0675
mgoldbrg@jhmi.edu
Richard A. Lewis, M.D.,
M.S.
Professor, Departments of Ophthalmology, Medicine,
Pediatrics, and Molecular and Human Genetics
Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine
Tel: 713-798-3030
Fax: 713-798-3042
rlewis@bcm.tmc.edu
Drs. Lewis and Goldberg would like to
offer their services to any patients who might benefit from
ophthalmic consultation and/or treatment under their
direction. They are also willing to consult with medical
professionals about this topic. Drs. Lewis and Goldberg are
both members of the Scientific Advisory Council of the
Incontinenta Pigmenti International Foundation.