Evaluation of Lead and Antioxidant Status in Blood and Lens of Senile Cataract Patients

Objective: To find out the mechanism of senile cataract by investigating the antioxidant enzymes and the lead content in the lens and blood of age-related cataractous patients.

Methods: The study was carried out on 52 patients who were subjected to cataract surgery in Al- Madinah Al Munawarah - KSA. The study population included (26 males and 26 females), aged 51-78 years with senile cataract. The determination of lead was carried out in their lens materials and blood samples using inductively coupled plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer. Glutathione Hydroxylase, Glutathione Peroxidase and Superoxide Dismutase were estimated by standard spectrophotometer methods in samples of lens and blood for all the subjects.

Results: The significant finding of the study was an increase in lenticular lead content of early agerelated cataract (51-60 years) than middle and advanced age-related cataract (61-70 years) and (71-80 years) old age group. Also; a decrease in the activity of Glutathione hydroxylase, Glutathione peroxidase and Superoxide dismutase in both lens and blood was found.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the present data indicates that chronic lead exposure and oxidative stress as measured by antioxidant enzyme status may play a role in age-related cataract development. Continuous lead monitoring in lenticular disturbances and lead chelation therapy in combination with antioxidant therapy may have a role to play in delaying the onset and progression of age-related cataract.