What are the causes of nystagmus in neonates?

From the Research

Causes of Nystagmus in Neonates

• Nystagmus in neonates can be caused by various factors, including:
  • Idiopathic infantile nystagmus (IIN), also known as congenital nystagmus, which can be caused by mutations in the FRMD7 gene 1, 2
  • Sensory nystagmus, which can be caused by defects in the visual system, such as retinal dystrophies, congenital stationary night blindness, and structural ocular defects including optic nerve hypoplasia or dense bilateral congenital cataracts 1, 3
  • Latent nystagmus, which is usually associated with infantile strabismus 1, 2
  • Nystagmus associated with albinism 1, 3
  • Neurological syndromes and diseases, such as Joubert syndrome 4
  • Anterior visual pathway lesions, which can cause unilateral nystagmus 1, 2
  • Suprasellar and mesodiencephalic lesions, which can cause seesaw nystagmus 1

Genetic Causes

• Mutations in the FRMD7 gene have been identified as a major cause of hereditary X-linked nystagmus 3, 2
• The AHI1 gene has also been implicated in the development of nystagmus, particularly in cases of Joubert syndrome 4

Other Causes

• Congenital cataracts, optic nerve hypoplasia, and retinal dystrophies can also cause nystagmus in neonates 1, 3
• Brainstem, cerebellar, or metabolic diseases can cause acquired nystagmus in children 2