Newborn with bilateral congenital cataracts: Never forget congenital rubella syndrome

A term, growth-restricted newborn presented with a sepsis-like picture, persistent pulmonary hypertension and bilateral cataracts. Initial review of prenatal and family history, as well as microbiological investigations were noncontributory. Following lenticular extraction, viral examination of the lenses confirmed the presence of rubella. Congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) presents with a constellation of signs and symptoms that overlap with many other conditions. The presence of bilateral cataracts in a newborn is a rare finding and this case is used to review the broad etiology of congenital cataracts. We propose a structured diagnostic approach for clinicians, remembering that CRS is a rare but possible etiology. The early diagnosis of CRS in this case, allowed us to initiate appropriate management and preventive measurements.