Cataracts: when to refer.
Unique stages of cataract development have been characterized in both human and animal lenses. These lens opacities impair visual acuity and are associated with inflammation. Total lens removal is typically followed by implantation of an artificial intraocular lens to restore vision. The success of this procedure is mainly dependent on the developmental stage of the cataract to be removed. This article reviews cataract development and provides the clinician with cataract referral criteria.
The Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island, West Islip, New York 11795, USA. noellelacroix@yahoo.com
Noelle
N
La Croix
D000818:Animals; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D002386:Cataract / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D002387:Cataract Extraction / Q000662:veterinary*; D002415:Cats; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D004285:Dogs; D019654:Lens Implantation, Intraocular / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013522:Surgery, Veterinary / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome