Association of pseudoexfoliation syndrome with increased vascular risk

PURPOSE: To examine vascular associations with pseudoexfoliation syndrome in view of the widespread elastosis now demonstrated in this disorder that affects many tissues, including vessel walls. METHODS: The Blue Mountains Eye Study is a population-based study of eye disease in an area west of Sydney, Australia. Of 4433 eligible per sons aged 49 years or older, 3,654 (82.4%) participated. Signs of pseudoexfoliation were graded clinically, after excluding 108 people who had bilateral cataract surgery. RESULTS: Pseudoexfoliation was present in 81 (2.3%) of 3546 participants aged 49 years or older. The prevalence of pseudoexfoliation increased with age and was higher in women and in people with glaucoma. Pseudoexfoliation was statistically significantly associated with a history of angina or hypertension or a combined history of angina, acute myocardial infarction, or stroke. CONCLUSION: Slit-lamp signs of pseudoexfoliation may identify individuals with an increased vascular risk.