Bilateral lightning induced electric cataract and optic neuropathy: a case report

Abstract

We report the case of a 17 year old male with decreased vision in both eyes for one month. He had sustained a lightning related injury two months back while he was operating a charging mobile phone. On examination, he had bilateral cataract and secondary optic atrophy. He underwent cataract surgery in both eyes with good immediate visual outcome. He required laser posterior capsulotomy later for significant posterior capsular opacification in both eyes. Electric cataracts can progress quickly and may be prone to developing PCO post-operatively. The surgeon should keep in mind the possibility of posterior segment changes and their implications on the final visual outcome while managing such cataracts.