Cataracts

Question 1

What are cataracts?

Answer 1

Cataracts occur when the lens in the eye becomes cloudy and opaque, reducing the amount of light entering the eye and thereby reducing visual acuity

Question 2

Congenital cataracts are rare. How do we screen for congenital cataracts?

Answer 2

Checking for the red reflex in the newborn screening examination

Question 3

Are symptoms usually symmetrical or asymmetrical?

Answer 3

Asymmetrical - eyes are affected separately

Question 4

Cataracts cause a gradual reduction in visual acuity. What are the other symptoms of cataracts?

Answer 4

• Change in colour vision, with colours becoming more brown/yellow
• “Starbursts” around lights

Question 5

What is the key sign for cataracts found on examination?

Answer 5

Loss of the red reflex

Question 6

Describe the management of cataracts

Answer 6

• If the symptoms are manageable, then no intervention is required
• If intervention is required: cataract surgery

Question 7

What does cataract surgery involve?

Answer 7

• Drilling and breaking the lens into pieces
• Removing the pieces
• Inserting an artificial lens

Question 8

Describe a complication of cataract surgery

Answer 8

Endophthalmitis - inflammation of the inner contents of the eye, usually caused by an infection which can lead to loss of vision unless treated with antibiotics