Heavy metal toxicity and the aetiology of glaucoma

Eye (Lond). 2020 Jan;34(1):129-137. doi: 10.1038/s41433-019-0672-z. Epub 2019 Nov 19.

Abstract

Despite recent advances, our understanding of the aetiological mechanisms underlying glaucoma remains incomplete. Heavy metals toxicity has been linked to the development of neurodegenerative diseases and various ocular pathologies. Given the similarities in pathophysiology between glaucoma and some neurodegenerative disorders, it is plausible that heavy metal toxicity may play a role in the development of glaucoma. Heavy metal exposure may be occupational, or through water or dietary contamination. In this report, we review mechanisms for systemic and neurotoxicity for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, cobalt, lead, mercury, and manganese, and weigh the evidence for an association between glaucoma and the accumulation of heavy metals either in ocular tissues or in the central nervous system.

摘要: 尽管近年来关于青光眼的发病机制的研究有所进展, 但我们对其认识仍不全面。已发现重金属毒性与神经的退行性病变与多种眼部疾病发生具有相关性。由于青光眼与一些退行性神经病变的病理生理机制相似, 因此推测重金属毒性可能与青光眼的发展有关。重金属暴露可能是职业性的原因, 也可能通过水及食物的污染。在这篇报道中我们分析了砷, 镉, 铬, 钴, 铅, 汞和锰对于全身和神经系统毒性的病理发病机制, 评估了重金属在眼部与中枢神经系统中的蓄积与青光眼发病之间的相关性。.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arsenic*
  • Cadmium
  • Glaucoma* / etiology
  • Humans
  • Mercury*
  • Metals, Heavy* / toxicity

Substances

  • Metals, Heavy
  • Cadmium
  • Mercury
  • Arsenic