Rare early cataract cases in type 1 diabetic children highlight importance of early intervention

Early cataract is a rare but significant complication in children and adolescents with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), according to a study. Prompt stabilization of blood glucose levels through intensive insulin therapy, followed by timely cataract surgery, is essential to prevent long-term visual impairment.

A retrospective study analyzed 210 pediatric patients with T1DM. Early cataracts were identified in only 2 patients (0.95%), both of whom were female, aged 13 and 9 years.

These cataracts developed rapidly within 3 months before or up to a year after the onset of diabetes. Both patients required intensive insulin therapy to stabilize blood glucose levels before undergoing cataract surgery. One patient experienced full visual recovery, while the other showed partial improvement after 8 years of insulin pump therapy and surgery.

The study underscores that while cataracts are rare in early-stage T1DM, timely glycemic control and surgical intervention are critical to preserving vision.

Reference
Wu S, Yan X, Wu W, et al. Early juvenile cataract in newly diagnosed type 1 diabetic patients: a description of two cases. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab. 2024;37(7):652-656. doi: 10.1515/jpem-2024-0005. PMID: 38814569.