Final answer:
Congenital cataracts are present at birth and can be caused by genetic factors or infections during pregnancy. Infantile cataracts occur within the first year of life and can be caused by various factors such as trauma or infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
A congenital cataract is present at birth and is usually caused by genetic factors or infections during pregnancy. It can affect one or both eyes. On the other hand, an infantile cataract occurs within the first year of life and can be caused by various factors such as trauma, infections, or metabolic disorders.
While both types of cataracts can cause visual impairments, the treatment options may differ. Congenital cataracts may require surgery at an early age to prevent the development of amblyopia (lazy eye), while infantile cataracts may be managed with regular check-ups and monitoring to determine if surgery is necessary.
Overall, the main difference between congenital and infantile cataracts is the time of onset and the underlying causes.