Understanding Common Vision Disorders

5. Measles

Measles is an uncommon childhood illness these days, as more and more children receive vaccinations. However, some cases still occur. In countries where most children remain unvaccinated, measles is a leading cause of childhood blindness. Almost all children with measles develop conjunctivitis. Measles can also cause keratitis, which is a corneal infection that causes temporary blurred vision. Left untreated, ulcers and scarring can develop on the cornea, causing permanent vision loss. In rare cases, measles can cause optic neuritis -- inflammation of the optic nerve potentially leading to vision loss.

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