Association of pseudoexfoliation syndrome with increased vascular risk

Am J Ophthalmol. 1997 Nov;124(5):685-7. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(14)70908-0.

Abstract

Purpose: To examine vascular associations with pseudoexfoliation syndrome in view of the wide-spread elastosis now demonstrated in this disorder that affects many tissues, including vessel walls.

Methods: The Blue Mountains Eye Study is a population-based study of eye disease in an area west of Sydney, Australia. Of 4433 eligible persons aged 49 years or older, 3,654 (82.4%) participated. Signs of pseudoexfoliation were graded clinically, after excluding 108 people who had bilateral cataract surgery.

Results: Pseudoexfoliation was present in 81 (2.3%) of 3546 participants aged 49 years or older. The prevalence of pseudoexfoliation increased with age and was higher in women and in people with glaucoma. Pseudoexfoliation was statistically significantly associated with a history of angina or hypertension or a combined history of angina, acute myocardial infarction, or stroke.

Conclusion: Slit-lamp signs of pseudoexfoliation may identify individuals with an increased vascular risk.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Australia / epidemiology
  • Exfoliation Syndrome / complications
  • Exfoliation Syndrome / epidemiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Odds Ratio
  • Prevalence
  • Risk Factors
  • Vascular Diseases / complications
  • Vascular Diseases / epidemiology*