Ophthalmic examination in children – comprehensive literature review

Abstract

The proper functioning of the patient in the environment is made possible by the interaction of individual systems or single organs. The visual system is undoubtedly one of the most important; it is the one that enables us to find our way and acquire a range of skills to survive in the environment. Unfortunately, if neglected at a young age, complications may remain for the rest of life. A number of tests have now been introduced to check the development and efficiency of a child's eyesight; their cyclical repetition and appropriate identification of changes or lack of them enable an appropriate diagnosis to be made and treatment to be applied, thanks to which we can eliminate or reduce the defect and, more importantly, prevent the development of a new one.

Contrary to appearances, vision screening in children does not take place in a single medical visit, it is an ongoing process, and the activities included in the screening should be carried out at each follow-up visit. This allows the practitioner to detect risk factors and eye abnormalities early on, which increases the chance of a positive outcome for the patient. It also enables the specialist to identify children who require more frequent eye checks, or patients who should be referred to a specialist qualified in children's eye examination.

During the screening examination, the doctor begins by talking to the child and parent about conditions that run in the family. The aim is to detect and identify risk factors that need to be carefully analysed. These factors include, but are not limited to, premature birth, Down's syndrome, cerebral palsy, a family history of strabismus, visual impairment, retinoblastoma, childhood glaucoma, childhood cataract or eye disease and genetic systemic diseases.