Cataracts Flashcards
What is a cataract?
A natural aging process of the lens, causing color change and opacity. It can also occur due to trauma or after eye surgery.
What are the signs of cortical cataracts?
Peripheral spoke-like opacities in the cortex, Early signs: vacuoles and water clefts in the anterior or posterior cortex.
What are the symptoms of cortical cataracts?
Glare, Vision affected depending on the location of the opacity.
What are the signs of nuclear cataracts?
Yellowing and brunescence seen on slit lamp.
What are the symptoms of nuclear cataracts?
Fading or yellowing of colors, Glare, Colored, blurred, or dim vision affecting DV more than NV.
What are the signs of posterior subcapsular cataracts?
Vacuolated, granular, or plaque-like opacities.
What are the symptoms of posterior subcapsular cataracts?
Clouded or blurred vision, affecting NV more than DV, Glare.
What are some general management recommendations for cataracts?
UV protection advice, Sunglasses for glare (not recommended for cortical cataracts), Sun visor or hat for glare, Routine referral for surgery if the patient desires.
What are the operative complications of cataract surgery?
Rupture of the posterior capsule, Loss of lens fragment into vitreous, Suprachoroidal hemorrhage.
What complications may arise 48 hours post-cataract surgery?
Corneal edema, Raised IOP, Uveitis, Cystoid macular edema, Periocular bruising, Wound leak, Wound burn, Hyphaema.
What are the postoperative complications of cataract surgery?
Iris prolapse, Bacterial endophthalmitis (intraocular infection), Posterior capsular opacification (requiring YAG laser capsulotomy), Retinal detachment.
How can nuclear cataracts affect vision?
They cause colored, blurred, or dim vision, with distance vision more affected than near vision.
What symptom is common across all types of cataracts?
Glare.
What should be avoided when managing glare from cortical cataracts?
Avoid recommending sunglasses.
What is posterior capsular opacification and how is it treated?
A common postoperative complication of cataract surgery, treated with YAG laser capsulotomy.
