Features of pathogenesis, diagnostics and treatment of cataracts in animals and humans

This article examines one of the most complex and common human and animals’ ophthalmological diseases which is identified as a constantly progressive clouding of the lens with subsequent loss of vision or blindness. The concept of cataract as a pathological condition related to clouding of the lens is given. The following reasons for the cataract are set out in the article: age-related changes, co-morbidities, eye injury, heredity, breed. Possible classifications of this ophtalmopathy due to time of occurrence, localization, maturity and etiology are given in the article. Main pathogenesis links of building above-mentioned types of cataracts are mentioned in the article. Main clinical manifestations and the most typical symptoms are highlighted. Different modern diagnostic methods of cataract are considered: slit lamp, biomicroscopy, electroretinographic, ultrasonographic diagnostics. The main stages of the cataract are described here: immature, mature, overripe ones. Special attention is paid to the possibility of serious complications as a formation of phacogenic glaucoma: phacolytic and phakomorphous ones. The options for the treatment of this pathology such as eye drops aimed at maintenance the healthy eye structure. Modern methodologies of surgical cataract treatment are highlighted: phacoemulsification with subsequent flexible lens implantation and ultrasound cataract surgery. It is mentioned that it is necessary to do a research in searching more effective drugs and more preventive methods for this ophtalmopathy. The importance of timely identification of the first symptoms and appeal to the professionals with the aim of pathology progressive and vision loss prevention are determined.