lens capsule of the eye. It is one of the common cause of vision
loss. Cataracts commonly occur bilaterally, with each progressing
independently. Traumatic cataracts, which are usually unilateral,
and congenital cataracts, which can remain stationary. Cataracts
usually affects patients over the age of 70, as part of aging. Surgery
improves vision in 95% of affected persons.
Causes: Senile cataracts develop in the elderly,
probably due to changes in the chemical state of lens proteins. Congenital
cataracts occur in newborns as genetic defects or as a result of maternal
rubella during the first trimester. Traumatic cataracts develop
after a foreign body injures the lens with sufficient force to allow fluid
(aqueous or vitreous humor) to enter the lens capsule. Complicated
cataracts usually occur secondary to uveitis, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa,
or detached retina. They can also occur in the course of a systemic
disease, such as; diabetes, hypoparathyroidism, or atopic dermatitis. Toxic
cataracts result from drug or chemical toxicity.
Symptoms:
Painless, gradual blurring and loss of vision
As progression, the pupil whitens.
Patient will complain of having the appearance of halos around lights,
blinding glare from headlights at night, and glare and poor vision in bright
sunlight.
Treatment:
Surgical extraction of the opaque lens and postoperative correction
of visual deficits. (usually a one day procedure)