Postoperative opacification of polymethylmethacrylate- intraocular lens

Background: Opacification of ophthalmic devices has been previously reported in silicone scleral buckle, Molteno implant, and intraocular lens opacification. However, there is no report on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) intraocular lens (IOL) calcification. Objective: Report the clinical feature, histopathologic and spectrophotometer analysis of opacified three-piece PMMA IOL. Method: A 60-year-old diabetic patient reported decreased visual acuity in her right eye, which had undergone phacoemulsification with PMMA IOL implantation. The ophthalmic examination revealed a white homogeneous opacification of posterior surface of the IOL. The explanted IOL was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and alizarin red staining. Results: The scanning electron microscope analysis showed granular deposits on posterior surface of the IOL. Using energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis, calcium and phosphate peaks were revealed, which was confirmed by positive for alizarin red staining. Conclusion: This case report provided evidence of PMMA IOL calcification caused by calcium and phosphate deposits. The possible etiologies were extrinsic and/or intrinsic factors.