Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is the most common type of secondary open angle glaucoma. A structural change in membranes within cells ultimately leads to the buildup of white flakes on structures inside the eye. These flakes are called pseudoexfoliation material. Over time, nearly 50% of people with pseudoexfoliation syndrome will also develop glaucoma. In addition to glaucoma, pseudoexfoliation may lead to poorly dilating pupils and weakness of lens zonules, which hold the lens in place. As a result, cataract surgery to remove the lens when it becomes cloudy with age is more complicated in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome.