Abstract

Pseudoexfoliation (PXF) is an age related, systemic, elastic fibrillopathy causes serious complications during cataract surgery such as zonular dialysis, capsular rupture and vitreous loss. AIM-To study the prevalence, age and sex distribution, and laterality of involvement of pseudoexfoliation (PXF). To study the distribution of PXF material in the eye and its association with cataract .MATERIALS AND METHODS-This was an observational and cross sectional study conducted at Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh. All patients who presented to ophthalmology OPD during Jan 2014 to October 2014 were included. PXF was diagnosed on slit lamp examination by the presence of white dandruff like material in the pupillary margin or on the anterior lens capsule of one or both eyes. Intra ocular pressure was measured by Goldmann applanation tonometer. Gonioscopy was done to know the status of angles, pigmentation and presence of PXF material and direct ophthalmoscopy was done to observe the disc changes. RESULTS- Out of 9413 patients, 59 patients presented with PXF (0.6%). PXF was more common in males (36) as compared to females (23) and in the age group above 50years. 32 patients had unilateral presentation and 27 had bilateral presentation. PXF material was most commonly found on the pupillary margin and on the anterior lens capsule. PXF is commonly associated with nuclear cataract.11 patients had IOP more than 21 mm Hg and 6 patients had glaucomatous disc changes. CONCLUSIONS- The prevalence of patients with PXF was 0.6%. The association of PXF with blindness and aging has public health implications. Pseudoexfoliation thus is an important cause for ocular morbidity. Ophthalmologists should focus on the detection of pseudoexfoliation especially considering the risks for operative complications related to pseudoexfoliation and the higher prevalence of glaucoma among these patients. The diagnosis of PXF may also be important in the management of glaucoma in this population.