Causes of cataract progression in glaucoma patients (report 1)

The incidence of combined cataract and glaucoma ranges from 14.6% to 76%, and increases to 85% in the case of pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Analysis of the literature revealed the influence of factors associated with glaucoma on the process of cataract development. Previously performed laser surgery or glaucoma surgery leads to cataract progression in glaucoma patients in 23.3% and 81% of cases, respectively. To solve this problem, some researchers suggest performing combined one-stage lens removal surgery with a hypotensive component, which reduces intraocular pressure and improves visual function. Up to 13.7% of cases associated with complications of glaucoma surgery lead to cataract progression. Cataract surgery in patients with glaucoma in most cases is performed at the moderate (44.6–59.8%) and advanced (18.7–30.3%) stages, which does not eliminate the theory of the influence of optic neuropathy progression on the process of cataract development. The incidence of cataract and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma comorbidity can reach 40.5–90%. Pseudoexfoliation syndrome leads to cataract progression with disruption of the suspensory apparatus of the lens due to the deposition of exfoliative material in the anterior segment of the eye. Presence of lens subluxation causes difficulties at the time of cataract extraction and increases the risk of intraoperative complications.