A patient undergoes phacoemulsification and develops glistening (fluid-filled microvacuoles) in the IOL optic postoperatively. This phenomenon is predominantly associated with which IOL material?
- A Hydrophobic acrylic (low water content) ✓
- B PMMA (polymethylmethacrylate)
- C Hydrophilic acrylic (high water content >18%)
- D Silicone
Correct answer: A. Hydrophobic acrylic (low water content)
Explanation
Glistenings are fluid-filled microvacuoles that form within the optic of hydrophobic acrylic IOLs — particularly AcrySof — when aqueous humor migrates into the polymer matrix upon temperature changes. Bench studies show they develop when the IOL is heated above and then cooled to body temperature. While they rarely cause clinically significant visual symptoms, high-grade glistenings can reduce contrast sensitivity. Hydrophilic acrylics have a different issue: calcification (surface depositions), not glistenings.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.