Rapid onset childhood cataracts leading to the diagnosis of autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy.

PURPOSE: To report a case of bilateral cataracts in a child that led to diagnosis of autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy.

DESIGN

Observational case report.

METHODS

A 12-year-old boy was being investigated for weakness, lethargy, short stature, and blurred vision. He developed bilateral, dense cataracts over a 2-week period. He was found to be hypocalcemic and diagnosed with hypoparathyroidism and autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy.

RESULTS

Because of hypoparathyroidism, adrenocortical failure, and insulin-dependent diabetes, it was 9 months before the patient's metabolic imbalance was brought under sufficient control to allow cataract surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy-candidiasis-ectodermal dystrophy should be considered with diagnoses of hypocalcemic cataract.