Which condition is associated with blindness in newborns?

Ophthalmia neonatorum is a condition that is directly associated with blindness in newborns due to its impact on the eyes shortly after birth. This condition refers to a type of conjunctivitis that can occur in infants, usually caused by the transmission of bacteria or viruses during childbirth. If not treated promptly, the infection can lead to severe complications, including corneal damage and scarring, which can consequently result in blindness.

In contrast, while retinopathy of prematurity is another condition that can lead to visual impairment, it primarily affects premature infants and is related to abnormal blood vessel development in the retina. Congenital cataracts can also cause vision problems; however, they may not be as immediately impactful on newborns as ophthalmia neonatorum. Astigmatism, on the other hand, is a refractive error that can occur at any age but is not specifically associated with blindness in newborns.

Understanding ophthalmia neonatorum's causes and potential consequences helps clarify its significance in the context of newborn eye health.