Individual response of the ocular lens to ionizing radiation

Purpose Cataract (opacification of the ocular lens) is a typical tissue reaction (deterministic effect) following ionizing radiation exposure, for which prevention dose limits have been recommended in the radiation protection system. Manifestations of radiation cataracts can vary among individuals, but such potential individual responses remain uncharacterized. Here we review relevant literature and discuss implications for radiation protection. This review assesses evidence for significant modification of radiation-induced cataractogenesis by age at exposure, sex and genetic factors based on current scientific literature. Conclusions In addition to obvious physical factors (e.g. dose, dose rate, radiation quality, irradiation volume), potential factors modifying individual responses for radiation cataracts include sex, age and genetics, with comorbidity and coexposures also having important roles. There are indications and preliminary data identifying such potential modifiers of radiation cataract incidence or risk, although no firm conclusions can yet be drawn. Further studies and a consensus on the evidence are needed to gain deeper insights into factors determining individual responses regarding radiation cataracts and the implications for radiation protection.

Automated summary

This article summarizes relevant literature on radiation cataracts and discusses the effects of age, sex, and genetics on the development of radiation-induced cataracts. Based on current scientific literature, individual responses to radiation cataracts are influenced by various factors, including physical factors, sex, age, and genetics, with comorbidity and coexposures also playing important roles. While there are preliminary data and indications of potential modifiers of radiation cataract incidence or risk, further research and consensus are needed to gain deeper insights.