Spontaneous Dislocation of the Lens Nucleus Into the Anterior Chamber Observed in a Patient With Overmature Senile Cataract

Abstract

Overmature cataract refers to the advanced stage of cataract where timely surgical intervention is not performed, leading to further progression characterized by decreased water content in the lens, degradation of fibers, and liquefaction within its structure, which can cause a reduction in volume, wrinkling of the capsule, as well as calcification or cholesterol crystallization on its surface. In addition, it may result in deepening of the anterior chamber. If left promptly untreated, these complications may result in visual impairment or even blindness. The occurrence of spontaneous complete dislocation of the lens nucleus into the anterior chamber in overmature cataracts is extremely uncommon. The authors present a case study involving a 74-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with complete dislocation of the lens nucleus in an overmature senile cataract without any apparent ocular injury or any relevant medical records. After undergoing cataract removal combined with anterior vitrectomy, the patient experienced relief from eye discomfort and expressed satisfaction with the surgical outcome; however, her visual acuity did not show significant improvement.