Stickler Syndrome Diagnosis and Treatment

An ophthalmologist diagnoses Stickler syndrome with a physical examination and medical history. A complete eye exam detects the problems associated with the syndrome.

Sometimes, the clear gel that fills the eyeball has an abnormal appearance. This gel is the eye’s vitreous. The abnormal appearance is visible during an eye exam.

Stickler syndrome cannot be cured, but ophthalmologists can treat eye problems due to the syndrome.

Cataract treatment

Treatment for cataracts in infants varies depending on each patient’s condition. Surgery is usually recommended very early in life. Many factors affect this decision, including the infant’s health and whether there is a cataract in one or both eyes.

If the child has a cataract in both eyes, it is possible that surgery may be delayed for years. Depending on their severity, it may never become necessary. But if only one eye has a cataract, the infant’s visual system can develop abnormally. If left untreated, serious vision problems and even vision loss can result.

Retinal detachment treatment

People with Stickler syndrome have increased risk for detached retina. They should be aware of detached retina symptoms in case they get one. If a detached retina occurs, surgery is necessary to reattach the retina.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma due to Stickler syndrome is commonly treated with medicated eyedrops. Surgery may be needed in some cases.

Nearsightedness

For severe nearsightedness, vision can often be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. Sometimes refractive surgery can help these cases of high myopia as well.