Persistent Fetal Vasculature

Persistent Fetal Vasculature (PFV), also known as Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous (PHPV), is a rare congenital eye condition that affects the development of the eye's blood vessels. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for PFV.

Causes

The exact cause of PFV is unknown, but it is believed to be a result of abnormal development of the eye during fetal development. It may be associated with genetic mutations or other factors that disrupt the normal formation of blood vessels in the eye.

Symptoms

The symptoms of PFV can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Leukocoria (white pupil) - This is the most common symptom of PFV and is often noticed by parents or caregivers. It occurs when light entering the eye is reflected off the abnormal blood vessels, causing a white or cloudy appearance in the pupil.
• Strabismus (crossed eyes) - PFV can cause misalignment of the eyes, leading to strabismus. This can affect the child's vision and depth perception.
• Poor vision - In severe cases, PFV can cause significant vision loss or blindness in the affected eye.

Diagnosis

PFV is typically diagnosed during a routine eye examination in infants or young children. The ophthalmologist will perform a thorough examination of the eye, including dilating the pupil to get a clear view of the retina and blood vessels. Additional tests, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be done to further evaluate the extent of the condition.

Treatment

The treatment for PFV depends on the severity of the condition and the impact on the child's vision. In mild cases, no treatment may be necessary, and regular monitoring of the eye may be sufficient. However, in more severe cases, treatment options may include:

• Surgery - In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove the abnormal blood vessels and improve vision. This may involve removing the vitreous gel or performing a vitrectomy.
• Corrective lenses - Glasses or contact lenses may be prescribed to help improve vision and correct any refractive errors caused by PFV.
• Vision therapy - For children with strabismus or amblyopia (lazy eye), vision therapy may be recommended to improve eye coordination and visual acuity.

Prognosis

The prognosis for PFV varies depending on the severity of the condition and the presence of any associated complications. In mild cases, the long-term outlook is generally good, with most children achieving normal or near-normal vision. However, in more severe cases, vision loss or blindness may occur, and additional interventions may be necessary to optimize visual outcomes.