Chalcosis lentis is a medical term used
to describe deposition of the element copper (Cu)
in the lens
and associated tissues of the eyes
resulting in a particular type of cataract.
A shorter definition of chalcosis lentis is "a
cataract caused by excessive intraocular copper", where the
term "intraocular" means within the eyeball.
The type of cataract called chalcosis lentis appears
as mall yellowish-brown opacities in the subcapsular cortex of the lens
and pupillary zone with petal-like spokes that extend towards the equator.
Possible causes of chalcosis lentis include:
- The presence of a foreign body either of, or containing, the element
copper becoming lodged in the eye.
- Excessive use of eyedrops that contain copper sulphate.
- A manifestation of Wilson' s disease (which is a genetic defect of
copper metabolism, resulting in excessive free copper within the body
becoming deposited in certain parts of the body, including the eyes).
See also chalcosis
( the more general incidence of copper in the eye - not specifically in
the lens, or causing any type of cataract).
More about Ophthalmology: This section includes short definitions
of many diseases, disorders, and conditions of the eyes and visual system.
For definitions of other terms in this category, choose from the list
to the left (but note that this is not a complete/exhaustive list).
Other related pages include the diagram
of the eye, and definitions
of parts of the eye, a description
of the human retina, and definitions
of parts of the retina, and the section of short definitions
of clinical and surgical procedures re. eyes and human visual system.
For further information see also our section of Books
about Ophthalmology. |
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This Section
is about
Diseases
and Disorders of the Eyes and Visual System.
To read about other diseases, disorders, or conditions of the eye and
human visual system, use the links on the left-side of this page.
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