Clinical Study on Cataracts in Renal Transplant Patients

Kim, Hyeong Kook; Lim, Sung Jeong; Kim, Hong Bok

Abstract

Development of cataract is a well-documented ocular complication of systemic cortico steroid use in renal transplant patients. The purpose of this paper was to examine the result of cataracts in these patients and its correlation between development of cataract and steroid dose, rejection episodes, and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) type. Thirty patients (50 eyes) received cataract surgeries after renal transplantation. Thirty eight eyes (76%) were found to have posteiror subcapsular opacity. Forty seven eyes (96%) had a good postoperative visual acuity. Two eyes had a minimal macular edema, and other two eyes showed transient increase of intraocular pressure. The daily steroid dose of study group was significantly lower than that of control group. There was no significant correlation between cataract formation and rejection episode, cyclosporin dose and azathioprine use. HLA B13 was present in control group to a great extent (p<0.05). The surgical results of cataract in renal transplant patients were relatively good, and careful attention was needed when steroid dose was changed. We need further study about to prevent the formation of cataract.