What are the different types of cataract?

Cataract is a common ophthalmological pathology which is characterized by the clouding of the crystalline lens, a natural lens located inside the eye.

This clouding can lead to a reduction in visual acuity and discomfort when seeing, which can lead to blindness if it is not treated.

There are different types of cataract, each with specific characteristics and different causes: discover them in this COP9 article!

The different types of cataract:

senile cataract

Senile cataract is a common eye condition in people over the age of 65, resulting from natural aging of the crystalline lens (located at the back of the cornea).

 

It is characterized by a progressive vision disorder caused by clouding of the lens, leading to blurred vision and a reduction in color perception.

 

Senile cataract can have a significant impact on individuals’ quality of life, but it can be effectively treated with surgery.

operation de la cataracte et alzheimer les bénéfices

The different types of cataract:

primary and secondary cataract

Primary cataract and secondary cataract are two different types of cataract, with different origins and progression.

 

Primary cataract develops naturally with age, while secondary cataract is a potential complication that can occur after cataract surgery, for example.

Primary cataract

Primary cataract is a common eye condition resulting from the natural aging process of the eye’s lens.

 

The main risk factors include:

 

  • aging;

  • exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun;

  • genetic predispositions.

 

It is characterized by the progressive opacification of the lens, leading to blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light and altered color perception.

 

Although primary cataracts can cause vision deterioration, they can be effectively treated with cataract surgery, a common and safe procedure that helps restore visual clarity.

Secondary cataract

Secondary cataract develops following another eye condition, such as glaucoma, retinal detachment or inflammation of the eye. This eye condition can occur after surgery, often several years after the procedure.

 

It is characterized by the clouding of the posterior lens capsule, which can cause blurred vision and other symptoms similar to those of primary cataracts.

 

Secondary cataract can be effectively treated with a procedure called laser capsulotomy, which helps restore clarity to the visual field.

 

It is important for people who have had cataract surgery to remain vigilant for signs of secondary cataract and to consult their ophthalmologist if symptoms appear.

The different types of cataract: nuclear sclerosis

Of all different types of cataract, cortical cataract is the one that affects the lens cortex, the shell-shaped outer layer.

It is characterized by ray-shaped opacities that extend from the edges of the lens toward the center.

People with cortical cataract may experience:

  • night vision problems;
  • halos around lights;
  • blurred vision.

The different types of cataract:

cortical cataract

Of all different types of cataract, cortical cataract is the one that affects the lens cortex, the shell-shaped outer layer.

 

It is characterized by ray-shaped opacities that extend from the edges of the lens toward the center.

 

People with cortical cataract may experience:

 

  • night vision problems;

  • halos around lights;

  • blurred vision.

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The different types of cataract: posterior subcapsular cataract

The posterior subcapsular cataract forms at the back of the crystalline lens, just below its capsule.

 

This form of cataract is often associated with conditions such as diabetes, prolonged use of corticosteroids, or trauma to the eye.

 

Symptoms include:

 

  • a blurred visual field near the pupil;

  • increased sensitivity to light;

  • glare.

The different types of cataract:

congenital cataract

Within these different types of cataract, there is a category specially dedicated to the youngest: we then speak of congenital cataract.

 

Congenital cataract is present from birth and can be due to:

 

  • genetic factors;

  • birth injuries;

  • problems with crystalline lens or eye development;

  • infections during pregnancy;

  • metabolic diseases.

 

It is important to promptly diagnose and treat congenital cataract in babies to prevent more serious complications, such as the development of amblyopia (lazy eye) or other visual development problems.


It can lead to significant vision loss if not treated early.

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Babies with congenital cataract may have signs such as:

 

  • white or opaque pupils;

  • abnormal eye movement (nystagmus);

  • a lack of reaction to visual stimuli.

 

Regular follow-up with a pediatric ophthalmologist is essential to ensure appropriate management of congenital cataract and preserve the child’s vision.

In conclusion

There are different types of cataract that affect vision and can cause progressive vision deterioration, which can affect near and distance vision.

 

It is essential to regularly consult an ophthalmologist to detect and treat any form of cataract as early as possible.

 

With advances in refractive surgery and cataract treatment, it is now possible to regain clear, clear vision even in the presence of a cataract.

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