In a female newborn in whom the diagnosis of IP is confirmed or strongly suspected, a dilated fundus exam as soon after birth as the neonatologist thinks it is safe is indicated. Sometimes, if there are any suspected retinal abnormalities, an examination under anesthesia may be required. The ophthalmologist should look at the optic nerve head, the macula (in the center of the retina), and the far peripheral retina where the typical pathologic events tend to occur. This should be done before the baby leaves the hospital. In a small fraction of infants with IP, abnormal blood vessels grow in the peripheral margins of the retina, similar to the abnormalities that occur in Retinopathy of Prematurity.
Severe retinal disease is often associated with brain dysfunction and is a marker to pursue x-ray scanning studies of the head. With respect to the eyes themselves, some babies with IP, and even some older patients, might benefit from laser treatment or freezing therapy (cryopexy) in an effort to prevent retinal detachment or vitreous hemorrhage from the consequences of the typical retinal neovascularization that occurs in this disorder.
Ophthalmologists with IP expertise
Morton F. Goldberg, M.D.
Director and William Holland Wilmer Professor of Ophthalmology
The Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Tel: 410 955-6846 Fax: 410 955-0675
Email: mgoldbrg@jhmi.edu
Richard A. Lewis, M.D., M.S.
Professor, Departments of Ophthalmology, Medicine,
Pediatrics, and Molecular and Human Genetics
Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine
Tel: 713-798-3030 Fax: 713-798-3042
Email: rlewis@bcm.tmc.edu
Drs. Lewis and Goldberg would like to offer their services to any patients who might benefit from ophthalmic consultation and/or treatment under their direction. They are also willing to consult with medical professionals about this topic. Drs. Lewis and Goldberg are both members of the Scientific Advisory Council of the Incontinenta Pigmenti International Foundation.
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