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  • Read our important medical disclaimer.

  • Can new stem-cell treatments treat a missed congenital cataract in a 21-year-old?

    APR 23, 2018

    Question:

    Can new stem-cell treatment treat a missed congenital cataract in a 21-year-old?


    Answer:

    There is no approved stem cell treatment for cataracts at this time. A great deal of research is being done with stem cells and the eye and it is possible that work in this very area is underway somewhere. It is possible that the congenital cataract deprived the eye of its normal development during youth and resulted in a condition we call amblyopia, or lazy eye. This condition must be diagnosed and treated prior to the age of seven for significant recovery of vision to occur.

    I offer a caution as there are several unaffiliated or free-standing stem cell clinics that offer solutions to problems that are actually beyond the scope of their expertise. For any medical treatment, be sure to see a board-certified MD or DO, who is fully licensed to practice in your state. There was a case in Florida where several people were blinded in both eyes by stem cell injections that were not well founded in science.


    Answered By: Wayne F Bizer DO

    Cataracts
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    Ask a Question

    Not every question will receive a direct response from an ophthalmologist. However, we will follow up with suggested ways to find appropriate information related to your question. Medical disclaimer

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