Hereditary Eye Diseases

Many types of eye disease can be inherited. Most cases of blindness in infants are caused by inherited forms of eye diseases, such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal degeneration and eye malformations. Furthermore, inheritable glaucoma and macular degeneration are two of the leading causes of blindness in adults.

Milder forms of eye disease are also strongly influenced by genetic factors:

• Strabismus (also called crossed eyes)
• Amblyopia (also called lazy eyes)
• Myopia (also called nearsightedness)
• Hyperopia (also called farsightedness)
• Astigmatism (blurred vision due to irregular shape of the cornea) 

Treating Hereditary Eye Diseases
 
There are various treatments for the many different types of hereditary eye disease. At Houston Methodist you will receive a thorough eye exam, and your medical and genetic histories will be considered before treatment begins.
 
Some mild forms of eye disease require no intervention, while other forms are treated with eye patches, prescription glasses or medication. In some cases surgery is necessary to improve vision or to avoid serious complications. At Houston Methodist an interdisciplinary team of doctors, including ophthalmologists, geneticists and other specialists, works to ensure the highest quality of patient care.