Long-term corticosteroid use can lead to which type of cataract?

Long-term use of corticosteroids is most commonly associated with the development of posterior subcapsular cataracts. This type of cataract forms in the back part of the lens and can significantly impact vision by causing glare and difficulty seeing in bright light conditions. The mechanism by which corticosteroids contribute to this cataract formation involves the alteration of the lens's biochemical environment, leading to changes in lens protein and fiber structure.

Posterior subcapsular cataracts typically develop more quickly than other types of cataracts, such as nuclear sclerotic or cortical cataracts, which can be associated with age or other factors. This type of cataract is particularly relevant to patients who require prolonged steroid therapy for conditions such as asthma, autoimmune diseases, or other inflammatory disorders, making awareness and monitoring important in these scenarios. Only specific patient populations, such as those on chronic corticosteroid therapy, are predominantly affected by this cataract type, highlighting the need for regular eye examinations in these patients.