Cataracts in atopic dermatitis: a case presentation and review of the literature.
BACKGROUND
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common skin disorder of increasing prevalence. Many ophthalmologic conditions are associated with AD, including cataract formation. Posterior and anterior subcapsular cataracts have been described in AD. Topical and systemic corticosteroids have been implicated in the development of cataracts. The precise pathogenic mechanisms and risk factors for development of atopic cataract are not clear.


METHODS
We report a case of cataract development in a child with severe AD and performed an extensive review of the dermatologic and ophthalmologic literature pertaining to AD and cataract formation. The incidence, demographics, pathogenesis, and characteristics of atopic cataracts are evaluated.


CONCLUSIONS
Atopic dermatitis alone is a risk factor to develop both posterior and anterior subcapsular cataracts. There is a slightly increased probability of posterior subcapsular cataracts. However, anterior subcapsular cataracts are more specific to AD. A positive correlation was found between atopic cataract development and a decreased inducibility of superoxide dismutase. This suggests that atopic cataract development is correlated with oxidative damage of the lens and related to chronic inflammation.
St Joseph Mercy Hospital, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA. brookebair@gmail.com
Brooke
B
Bair
John
J
Dodd
Karen
K
Heidelberg
Kent
K
Krach
D002386:Cataract / Q000150:complications* / Q000378:metabolism; D002648:Child; D003876:Dermatitis, Atopic / Q000150:complications*; D005260:Female; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007073:Immunoglobulin E / Q000097:blood; D018384:Oxidative Stress; D010789:Phototherapy / Q000009:adverse effects; D012307:Risk Factors
D005938:Glucocorticoids; D007073:Immunoglobulin E