Animal study on the effects of catalin on aftercataract and posterior capsule opacification.

Purpose: To find out the role of Catalin in the prevention of posterior capsular opacification (PCO), we undertook this experimental study in rabbits.

Methods: Twenty rabbits (10 for the Catalin group and 10 for the placebo group) were operated on for extracapsular clear lens extraction in an aseptic environment. In all cases, capsulorrhexis of 8 mm diameter was carried out. Both the test drug and placebo were given at a dose of 4 times/day from the first postoperative day for 8 weeks. Common drugs in both groups were topical corticosteroid, antibiotic and cycloplegic drops. Periodic slitlamp examinations and photographic documentations were carried out to find any evidence of aftercataract. At the end ot 8 weeks, histopathological examination was carried out to document any evidence of aftercataract.

Result: Overall, evidence of aftercataract was seen in 6 rabbits in the control group and 3 in the Catalin group; the degree of PCO was higher in the placebo group.

Conclusion: We found that Catalin played some role in preventing PCO.