Efficacy evaluation and predictive value of IL-20 and Apelin-13 after cataract surgery by phacoemulsification...

Phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation is the standard treatment for cataract. A proportion of patients still experience suboptimal visual outcomes or postoperative complications. This study aimed to investigate the roles of Interleukin-20 (IL-20) and Apelin-13 as biomarkers for assessing visual outcomes and predicting postoperative prognosis following phacoemulsification with IOL implantation.

In this retrospective study, 193 cataract patients who underwent phacoemulsification combined with IOL implantation between January 2023 and December 2024 were included. Based on the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and complication status at 3 months postoperatively, patients were categorized into good (n = 138) and poor (n = 55) outcome groups. Clinical baseline data, levels of IL-20, Apelin-13 in preoperative serum and intraoperative aqueous humor were compared between two groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to identify factors influencing postoperative outcomes. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the predictive performance of IL-20 and Apelin-13.

There were significant differences in diabetes history, CRP, and IL-6 levels (p < 0.05). Patients in the poor outcome group exhibited significantly higher IL-20 and lower Apelin-13 levels in both aqueous humor and serum (p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed higher levels of IL-20 and lower levels of Apelin-13 in aqueous humor and serum were independent predictors of poor postoperative outcomes. ROC curve analysis indicated that levels of IL-20 and Apelin-13, as well as the IL-20/Apelin-13 ratio in aqueous humor effectively predicted postoperative outcomes.

IL-20 and Apelin-13 are significantly associated with the efficacy of cataract surgery. Apelin-13 serves as a protective factor for favorable outcomes, whereas IL-20 is a risk factor. Their ratio shows strong predictive value for adverse prognosis. These biomarkers offer potential for preoperative risk assessment and personalized treatment strategies, with significant clinical implications for improving postoperative outcomes.