Laboratory screening in the assessment of human cataract

Cataracts may clearly arise in association with systemic metabolic disorders, but most ophthalmologists do not request an extended laboratory assessment for patients presenting with cataracts who are otherwise in good health. This approach was not unreasonable in view of the very low yield of unsuspected abnormalities revealed by detailed screening, but should be reconsidered in view of recent advances particularly in the understanding of partial defects of galactose metabolism. Proposals for a laboratory screening policy in relation to metabolic cataracts are discussed.