Posterior Polar Cataract is a rare eye condition that affects the back of the eye’s lens.
The condition can affect both far and near vision and limits the patient’s ability to perform daily tasks.
Let us explore more about Posterior Polar Cataracts, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
What is a Posterior Polar Cataract
Posterior Polar Cataract (PPC) is a rare type of Congenital Cataract and is completely different from other types of Cataracts.
The eye condition affects the eye’s posterior capsule and makes it cloudy over time.
The eye lens helps focus light on the retina, so one may experience vision problems if the lens becomes cloudy.
Posterior Polar Cataract is a serious eye condition that affects a person’s distance and near vision.
One should get regular eye checkups and consult an eye expert.
Posterior Polar Cataract symptoms
Identifying the signs of Posterior Polar Cataracts is important for getting timely medical help.
The symptoms of Posterior Polar Cataract include:
- Glare
- Trouble reading small text
- Halos
- Difficulties driving at night
- Low contrast sensitivity
- Photophobia
Low contrast sensitivity makes it hard to differentiate between objects and their surroundings.
Consult an eye expert if you experience any of the above symptoms.
Causes of Posterior Polar Cataracts
Understanding the causes of Posterior Polar Cataracts helps in detecting the condition early.
Aging is the main cause of Cataracts, but Posterior Polar Cataracts may have additional causes.
The extra factors that can contribute to the formation of Posterior Polar Cataracts are:
Genetics: A study states that 40 to 55% of PPC patients had a family history of the condition. The evidence suggests that genetics may play a role in the development of Posterior Polar Cataracts. Therefore, talk to your family members about their medical history.
Surgery complication: Posterior Polar Cataracts can also result from common complications during surgery, like nucleus drop and posterior capsule breach.
Eye trauma or injury: Trauma to the eye can also lead to Posterior Polar Cataracts. The eye trauma can result from direct injury or foreign objects like dust, glass, or more.
Posterior Polar Cataract treatment options
Source: pixel_shotsThe treatment for Posterior Polar Cataracts depends on the severity of symptoms.
In case of mild symptoms, the doctor may recommend prescription eyeglasses for distance and near vision defects.
On the other hand, doctors may suggest Cataract surgery for severe cases of Posterior Polar Cataracts.
The surgery removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with an artificial lens.
Also, modern types of Cataract surgery are highly effective and safe procedures.
Consult an eye expert for a complete eye exam.
Key takeaways
Posterior Polar Cataract is an eye condition that affects the back of the eye lens and makes it cloudy over time.
It is a rare condition caused by factors like genetics, surgery complications, and more.
The symptoms of Posterior Polar Cataracts include glare, trouble in reading, photophobia, halos, and more.
One should get a complete eye test to identify the proper cause of Posterior Polar Cataracts and treatment options.
The treatment options for the rare condition include prescription eyeglasses or cataract surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Anterior and Posterior Polar Cataracts?
Anterior Polar Cataracts affect the outer layer or the front of the eye’s lens. On the other hand, Posterior Polar Cataracts affect the inner or back layer of the lens.
The two conditions are different in terms of their location within the lens, symptoms, and more.
Does Posterior Polar Cataract affect vision?
Yes, Posterior Polar Cataract is a serious eye problem that can impact one’s vision. It causes cloudy vision, increases glare sensitivity, and reduces night vision.
What is the Posterior Polar Cataract surgery success rate?
How do you manage Posterior Polar Cataracts?
Management of Posterior Polar Cataracts includes regular appointments or prescription glasses for mild cases and cataract surgery for severe cases.
What are the complications of Posterior Polar Cataracts?
The complications of Posterior Polar Cataracts include Amblyopia, Posterior capsular dehiscence, Intraoperatively, Posterior capsular rupture, and more.
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