Pseudoexfoliation cataract: possible systemic associations

Abstract

Aim The aim of this study was to report the prevalence and possible systemic associations of pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PXF) in patients with age-related cataract scheduled for surgery in Najran District, South Saudi Arabia. Patients and methods In this retrospective study, the medical records of 681 consecutive patients scheduled for routine cataract surgeries were reviewed. All patients were 60 years old or more. A comprehensive ophthalmic examination was performed for all patients, including visual acuity assessment, refraction, Goldmann applanation tonometry, gonioscopy, assessment of type of cataract, as well as fundus examination. Systemic conditions were reported, and a possible relation with PXF was assessed and analyzed. Results Pseudoexfoliation was diagnosed in 192 patients, with an overall incidence of 28.19%. The occurrence of pseudoexfoliation was found to be higher in older age groups. Possible associations with several systemic conditions were documented and discussed. Conclusion PXF is a common age-related disorder in patients with age-related cataract in Najran area, South Saudi Arabia, with an overall incidence of 28.19%. More research is needed before using PXF as an indicator for the presence of systemic diseases.

Keywords

• cataract
• ischemic heart diseases
• pseudoexfoliation syndrome
• pseudoexfoliation
• systemic diseases