Congenital glaucoma is a rare form of glaucoma that is present in some babies when they are born. Glaucoma is an eye disorder that damages the nerve at the back of the eye (optic nerve), resulting in loss of eyesight, especially peripheral (side) vision.

Congenital glaucoma is often caused by a birth defect that can cause abnormal development of structures in the eye. It must be treated as soon as possible to avoid vision loss or blindness.

Congenital glaucoma is usually diagnosed by the end of the first year of life. About one-half of these children are diagnosed at birth.

Glaucoma that develops between birth and age 3 is called infantile glaucoma.

People between the ages of 3 and young adulthood can develop another type of developmental glaucoma called juvenile glaucoma.