Oxidative stress markers in senile cataract and primary open-angle glaucoma

Abstract

Purpose This study aimed at the evaluation of the role of oxidative stress markers such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and catalase activity in senile cataract and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) to allow for modification and updating the management of such cases. Patients and methods This is an observational case–control study. The study included 60 participants divided into three equal groups: group A (20 normal persons) as the control group, group B (20 patients with untreated POAG; newly diagnosed), and group C (20 patients with senile cataract). Serum oxidative stress markers were measured in all groups and statistical analysis of data was performed. Results In comparison with the control group, serum SOD increased significantly in group B patients with POAG (2.11±0.3 U/ml, P0.05). In addition, serum MDA increased significantly in group B patients with POAG (4.12±0.81 nmol/ml, P0.05). Serum catalase activity decreased significantly in group B patients with POAG (16.24±3.25 U/ml, P0.05). Conclusion Oxidative stress markers had a significant role in the pathogenesis of POAG and had no role in senile cataract. MDA increased significantly in cases of POAG, and antioxidant activity (except SOD) decreased in such cases and were not changed in cases of senile cataract, indicating the importance of the addition of antioxidative therapy in conjunction with the medical treatment of POAG.

Keywords

• catalase activity
• malondialdehyde
• oxidative stress markers
• primary open-angle glaucoma
• senile cataract
• superoxide dismutase