Beyond Hyperglycemia: Bilateral Total Cataract in an Adolescent with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Cataracts in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) are uncommon but can cause profound visual impairment. This case report describes the clinical presentation, surgical management, and short-term outcomes of bilateral total cataracts in a 16-year-old female with an approximately two-year history of T1DM. Clinical data were retrospectively obtained from medical records, including ophthalmologic examinations, ocular biometry, operative reports, and postoperative assessments. At presentation, visual acuity was limited to hand movements in both eyes, and dense lens opacities prevented fundus visualization. The patient underwent sequential bilateral cataract extraction with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation under general anesthesia. Uncorrected visual acuity improved to 6/6 in each eye during the first postoperative week and remained 6/6 at the one-month follow-up for each eye. This case highlights the potential for substantial visual recovery following surgery in an adolescent with bilateral total cataracts and T1DM. Although diabetes may have contributed to cataract formation, the available clinical information does not establish a causal relationship. Continued diabetes management and individualized ophthalmic follow-up remain important for long-term ocular health.