Correlation among lens opacities classification system III grading, visual function index-14, pentacam nucleus staging, and objective scatter index for cataract assessment.

Purpose: To investigate the relationship among Lens Opacities Classification System III (LOCS III) grading score, Visual Function Index-14 (VF-14) score, average lens density by the Pentacam Nucleus Staging system, and the objective scatter index measured by the Optical Quality Analysis System in age-related cataract patients.

Design: Prospective, single-center, cross-sectional study.

Methods: Thirty-six subjects (60 eyes) with age-related cataract were recruited. Subjects with any corneal anomaly potentially affecting intraocular scatter were excluded. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), LOCS III nuclear opalescence score and cortical cataract score, VF-14 score, average lens density, and objective scatter index were obtained. Correlations among these parameters were analyzed.

Results: The LOCS III nuclear opalescence score was correlated with the BCVA (r = 0.438; P = .001), objective scatter index (r = 0.543; P < .001), and average lens density (r = 0.621; P < .001). The objective scatter index was also correlated with the BCVA (r = 0.779; P < .001) and the average lens density (r = 0.320; P = .013). The VF-14 score had the strongest correlation with the objective scatter index (r = -0.712; P < .001). The difference between groups with objective scatter index<3.0 and ≥3.0 was significant with regard to BCVA, average lens density, LOCS III nuclear opalescence score, and VF-14 score.

Conclusions: LOCS III grading remains an economical and effective method to assess lens opacities, especially in the formation of early cortex cataracts. The objective scatter index can be a useful parameter to objectively analyze the correlation between ocular examination findings and patient concerns. Furthermore, the objective scatter index scores ≥3.0 can be a possible objective cut-off for preoperative decision making.