Peering Into Pediatric Eyes: Ubm For Congenital Anomalies

To evaluate the diagnostic utility of ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) in pediatric anterior segment congenital anomalies and to demonstrate its role in detecting, characterizing, and localizing structural abnormalities to guide clinical management and surgical planning.

Pediatric patients with congenital anterior segment anomalies present a diagnostic challenge, as subtle structural defects may be difficult to detect using routine clinical examination. Accurate imaging is essential for assessment, risk stratification, and planning appropriate interventions.

A retrospective analysis was conducted on pediatric patients evaluated over the last 25 years at Watany Eye Hospital and the Watany Research and Development Center.UBM examinations were performed using the Vumax system with 35 MHz probes. The cornea, iris, ciliary body, anterior chamber, and lens were systematically assessed. Data were collected on irideocorneal adhesions, aniridia, congenital lens anomalies, angle abnormalities, and ciliary body developmental defects. Findings were analyzed to determine UBM’s diagnostic contribution and impact on management.

UBM identified a spectrum of congenital anterior segment abnormalities, including corneal defects, irideocorneal adhesions, iris coloboma, aniridia, spherophakia, anterior and posterior lenticonus, and angle dysgenesis. The technique enabled precise localization, characterization, and documentation of these anomalies, providing critical information for surgical planning and patient management.

UBM is an invaluable imaging tool in pediatric anterior segment congenital anomalies. It enhances diagnostic accuracy, reveals subtle or hidden structural defects, and directly informs clinical decision-making and surgical planning, improving patient care and outcomes.