Ocular manifestations of infants with Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) at Philippine Children&rsquo;s Medical Center from 2015-2021

Joanne Paula  B. Manalo,; Mary Ann  C. Bunyi,; Norman Eric  F. Fajardo,

Ocular manifestations of infants with Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) at Philippine Children’s Medical Center from 2015-2021

Joanne Paula B. Manalo | Mary Ann C. Bunyi | Norman Eric F. Fajardo

Abstract:

OBJECTIVE: The study determined the ocular manifestations as well as the clinico-demographic, maternal profile, and management of infants with Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) seen at the Philippine Children’s Medical Center from 2015 to 2021. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted among children less than 1 year of age, born between January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2021, who met the clinical case definition of CRS. RESULTS: Among the 398 reviewed charts, 312 were suspected cases of CRS, 79 were probable, and 7 were laboratory-confirmed. Ocular conditions were found in 54 suspect cases, 14 probable cases, and 2 confirmed cases. Congenital cataract was the most common ocular manifestation in infants with CRS, and associated clinical manifestations were mainly congenital heart disease followed by microcephaly and hearing loss. CONCLUSION: This study highlighted the challenge of CRS diagnosis in the country, with most cases diagnosed based on clinical manifestations and a limited number of laboratory-confirmed cases due to the expense and availability of confirmatory tests. These findings emphasize the importance of recognizing ocular manifestations as an early indicator of CRS and the need for improved surveillance and awareness of the disease to facilitate early recognition and management.

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