Differences in Aqueous Humor Cytokine Concentrations According to the Presence of Posterior Subcapsular Cataract: A Prospective Case-Control Study.

Background: Posterior subcapsular cataract (PSC) substantially impacts visual function, and prior studies have suggested that inflammatory cytokines may have a role in its development. We aimed to analyze inflammatory cytokine concentrations in the aqueous humor by cataract type and severity, specifically comparing them in relation to the presence of PSC, and to identify risk factors for PSC.

Methods: We prospectively recruited patients undergoing routine cataract surgery. PSC presence was documented via slit-lamp examination and anterior segment photography during cataract diagnosis. Aqueous humor samples were collected prior to surgery and analyzed using quantitative multiplexed antibody assays to measure the concentrations of 10 inflammatory cytokines (interferon-α [IFN-α], IFN-γ, interleukin [IL]-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α). Cytokine concentrations were compared according to PSC status.

Results: Overall,80 eyes of 80 patients were included, 45 with and 35 without PSC. Compared with those in the non-PSC group, patients with PSC showed significantly higher aqueous humor concentrations of IFN-γ (2.764 vs. 2.301 pg/mL,  = .013). No significant correlation was observed between PSC status and the aqueous humor concentrations of other examined inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusion: IFN-γ expression tended to be higher in eyes with PSC than in those without PSC, suggesting a possible role in PSC pathophysiology.