cataracts

Question 1

definition of cataracts

Answer 1

opacification of the crystalline lens

that results from

• aging,
• trauma,
• metabolic disorders,
• medications,
• congenital problems

Question 2

signs and sx of cataracts

Answer 2

• subjective decrease in vision - gradual
• blurred/cloudy vision
• glare
• washed-out coloured vision
• reduced acuity
• defects in red reflex

Question 3

RF for cataracts

Answer 3

• > 65yrs
• female
• smoking
• long term UV exposure
• DM
• trauma
• long term steroids
• FHx
• uveitis
• myopia

Question 4

ix for cataracts

Answer 4

dilated fundus examination - normal
measurement of intra-ocular pressure - normal
glare vision test - reduced acuity under these conditions
slit lamp exam of the anterior chamber - see cataract

Question 5

mx of cataracts

Answer 5

if no eye pathology or visual impairment - observation
treat other visual impairment first
if visual impairment - surgery
* remove cataract
* replace with lens implant

ongoing if secondary cataract develops - create opening using laser therapy

Question 6

patient advice for cataracts

Answer 6

after surgery
* wear eye patch for the first week at night
* change glasses 1 mo after surgery

Question 7

complications of cataracts

Answer 7

blindness

post op:
* haemorrhage
* corneal oedema
* raised pressure
* dry eye
* infection - endophthalmitis
* crystoid macular oedema
* posterior capsualr tear and vitreous loss
* dysphotopsia after intra-ocular lens insertion
* retinal detatchment
* toxic anterior segment syndrome
* non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy