A Study on Serum Levels of Malondialdehyde, Ascorbic acid, Alpha-Tocopherol and Uric acid in Senile Cataract

Aim: The study aims to determine whether oxidative stress contributes significantly to the development of Senile cataract by comparing serum levels of oxidative stress marker Malondialdehyde and antioxidants Ascorbic acid, Alpha Tocopherol and Uric acid among Senile cataract patients and healthy controls. Materials and Methods: A total of 86 subjects were included in the study, out of which 49 were senile cataract patients and 37 were age and gender matched healthy controls. Estimation of Malondialdehyde, Ascorbic acid, Alpha- Tocopherol and Uric acid was done in the serum samples of all subjects included in the study. Results: Mean MDA level in cases was significantly higher at 4.41nmol/ml compared to controls which was 3.88nmol/ml. Mean ascorbic acid level among cases was 10.99 mg/L whereas in controls it was significantly higher at 13.69 mg/L. α-tocopherol level among cases was 7.98 mg/L whereas in controls it was significantly higher at 8.76 mg/L. Mean uric acid level among cases was 4.29mg/dl whereas in controls it was 4.55mg/dl, the difference was statistically insignificant. Conclusion: Oxidative stress and antioxidant status contributes significantly to the development and progression of senile cataract. Clinical Significance: Measures to monitor oxidative stress and improve antioxidant status in the population can be helpful in delaying the onset and progression of senile cataract. Keywords: Oxidative stress, Senile cataract, Malondialdehyde, Antioxidants