Cation changes in the lens and aqueous during the induction of acute reversible lens opacity in the hamster.

The induction of acute reversible lens opacities in the Stjrian hamster following phenylephrine mydriasis is accompanied by an increase in the sodium and potassium concentration and a decrease in the water content of the lens. There is a simultaneous increase in sodium concentration in the aqueous humor. Final analysis of the effect of various drugs on these lens opacities should reveal that the potentiation of cataracts is proportional to the effect on evaporation at the cornea or aqueous production or both.