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. 2022 Aug 20;19(16):10376.
doi: 10.3390/ijerph191610376.

Levels of Trace Elements in the Lens, Aqueous Humour, and Plasma of Cataractous Patients-A Narrative Review

Zuzanna Micun  1 , Martyna Falkowska  2 , Maryla Młynarczyk  1 , Jan Kochanowicz  3 , Katarzyna Socha  2 , Joanna Konopińska  1
Affiliations

Levels of Trace Elements in the Lens, Aqueous Humour, and Plasma of Cataractous Patients-A Narrative Review

Zuzanna Micun et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. .

Abstract

Cataracts are one of the most common causes of effective vision loss. Although most cases of cataracts are related to the ageing process, identifying modifiable risk factors can prevent their onset or progression. Many studies have suggested that micro and macroelement levels, not only in blood serum but also in the lens and aqueous humour, may affect the risk of the occurrence and severity of cataracts. This systematic review aims to summarise existing scientific reports concerning the importance of trace elements in cataractogenesis. Many authors have pointed out elevated or decreased levels of particular elements in distinct ocular compartments. However, it is not known if these alterations directly affect the increased risk of cataract occurrence. Further studies are needed to show whether changes in the levels of these elements are correlated with cataract severity and type. Such information would be useful for determining specific recommendations for micronutrient supplementation in preventing cataractogenesis.

Keywords: aqueous humour and plasma; cataract; cataract nutrition; macroelements; microelements; micronutrients; trace elements in lens.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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Flowchart showing the proposed approach.
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