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Updated: Aug 15, 2026
05:05
Dissection of Human Vitreous Body Elements for Proteomic Analysis
Published on: January 23, 2011
Some blood plasma constituents correlate with human cataract
C A Donnelly1, J Seth, R M Clayton
1Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Edinburgh.
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Plasma differences in cataract patients suggest underlying health issues. Key markers like bilirubin and cortisol were elevated, indicating potential liver dysfunction and increased risk factors for cataract development.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Clinical Biochemistry
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Cataract is a leading cause of visual impairment, particularly in older adults.
- Understanding the biochemical factors associated with cataract formation is crucial for risk assessment and prevention.
- Previous studies have suggested links between systemic conditions and cataract, but comprehensive plasma analysis is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate differences in plasma constituent concentrations between patients with cataract and matched controls.
- To identify potential biochemical markers and dysfunctions associated with cataract development.
- To explore the role of factors like liver function, steroid use, and diabetes in cataract etiology.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 1000 cataract patients and 1000 matched controls.
- Participants were matched for sex and age (within 5-year bands).
- Plasma samples were collected via venipuncture, and eye examinations were performed by ophthalmologists.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in 10 out of 18 plasma constituents were observed between groups.
- Elevated levels of bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase suggested subclinical liver dysfunction in cataract patients.
- Increased plasma cortisol, alkaline phosphatase, calcium, glucose, and sodium were noted in the cataract group, while total cholesterol was lower.
Conclusions:
- Cataract in older individuals appears to result from an accumulation of risk factors.
- Even if individual plasma concentrations are within normal limits, significant differences from control populations highlight underlying systemic dysfunctions.
- Subclinical liver dysfunction, steroid treatment, diabetes, and elevated cortisol are potential contributors to cataract development.
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