Short stature in children with primary congenital glaucoma-a retrospective cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

In our practice, we have observed that many children with primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) seem to have short stature. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether there is an association between PCG and short stature in children.

METHODS

The medical records of children with PCG (mean age, 41.1 ± 18.9 months) who presented to our tertiary eye care center from January 2014 to December 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. Baseline characteristics, heights and weights of children were extracted from the record and plotted on standard height/weight charts. Z scores for height and weight were calculated, and short stature and low weight were classified as moderate or severe.

RESULTS

This pilot study included 93 patients with PCG, 43 (46%) males and 50 (54%) females. Forty-three children (46%) had evidence of moderate or severely short stature (Z score < -2), with a roughly equal distribution by sex. Twenty-seven children (29%) had evidence of severe short stature (Z score < -3). Despite short stature, children tended not to be underweight: only 6 children (6%) were moderately or severely underweight.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that children with PCG may be of shorter stature, but of normal weight for age. These findings warrant further evaluation in a larger detailed prospective study controlling for potential confounders such as socioeconomic status.