Presenile cataract formation and decreased activity of galactosemic enzymes
H. W. Skalka and J. T. Prchal
One hundred forty-seven patients, 144 with advanced cataract formation, had
determinations of erythrocyte galactokinase and galactose-1-phosphate
uridyl transferase performed. Significant reduction (more than 2 SDs) of
one of these enzymes was found in 47.4% of patients 50 years old or less
with presenile "idiopathic" bilateral cataracts, 7.1% of other patients
with cataracts aged 50 years or less, and 3.8% of patients with cataracts
aged 51 years or more. The differences between the group with presenile
idiopathic cataracts and the other groups were statistically highly
significant (P less than .001). Patients with reduced activity of
galactokinase or galactose-1-phosphate uridyl transferase (presumed
heterozygotes) compose about 1% of the general population, appear to be
more susceptible to idiopathic presenile cataract formation, and may be
more prone to secondary cataract formation after a variety of lenticular
insults. Dietary restriction of milk and milk products may prevent or delay
cataract formation in these individuals.
