[Pseudoexfoliation syndrome and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma].

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Genetics
• Systemic Diseases

Background:

• Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is an age-related systemic disorder affecting anterior eye structures.
• Exfoliative material, composed of abnormal fibrils, accumulates in various organs, notably the eye.
• Incidence and prevalence vary globally across ethnicities and geographic regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathophysiology, risk factors, and clinical manifestations of pseudoexfoliation syndrome.
• To highlight the association between pseudoexfoliation syndrome and ocular complications like glaucoma and cataract.
• To discuss the implications for surgical management and potential therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on pseudoexfoliation syndrome.
• Analysis of epidemiological data regarding prevalence and incidence.
• Examination of genetic associations (e.g., LOXL1 gene) and environmental factors.

Main Results:

• Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is linked to LOXL1 gene polymorphisms and environmental factors (UV exposure, caffeine).
• Ocular complications include bilateral, asymmetric glaucoma and earlier-onset nuclear cataracts.
• Pseudoexfoliation glaucoma progresses faster than primary open-angle glaucoma, often requiring surgery.
• Cataract surgery in affected patients has a significantly higher complication rate.

Conclusions:

• Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is a complex systemic disease with significant ocular morbidity.
• Early detection and management of glaucoma and cataract are crucial.
• Targeting exfoliative material production or accumulation may improve patient prognosis.