Spontaneous absorption of a cataractous lens

A case of spontaneous absorption of a cataractous lens is presented. A 37-year-old woman with Down's syndrome presented with bilateral cataracts. On follow-up, the cataract in her right eye was found to be absorbed with no secondary uveitis or glaucoma. Surgical capsulotomy was performed on the remnant anterior and posterior capsules. Such absorption is known in juveniles and in hypermature cataract, but is rare in adults in the absence of injury or inflammation. Absorption occurred over a period of one year.