Childhood glaucoma is a rare form of glaucoma that can be present in some children when they are born. Or it may develop as the child gets older. 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.

Childhood 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 diagnosed in the first month of life.

Glaucoma that develops between 1 month and 2 years of age is called infantile glaucoma.

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