Stickler Syndrome Diagnosis and Treatment

Stickler syndrome is diagnosed by a physical examination and medical history. A complete eye exam by an ophthalmologist will detect the problems associated with the syndrome.

In some types of Stickler syndrome, the clear gel that fills the eyeball (the vitreous) has an abnormal appearance, which is visible during an eye exam.

Stickler syndrome treatment

Treatment for cataracts in infants from Stickler syndrome varies depending on the nature of each patient’s condition. Surgery is usually recommended very early in life, but 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, or, depending on their severity, it may never become necessary. However, if only one eye is affected by cataract, the infant’s visual system can develop abnormally, and, if left untreated, serious vision problems and even vision loss can result.

Because people with Stickler syndrome have increased risk for detached retina, they should be aware of detached retina symptoms in the event they occur. In the event that a detached retina occurs, surgery is necessary to re-attach the retina.

Glaucoma associated with Stickler syndrome is most commonly treated by medicated eyedrops, although surgery may be needed.

In cases of severe nearsightedness (high myopia), vision can often be easily corrected with glasses, contact lenses or sometimes with refractive surgery.