Characterization of Dysfunctional Lens Index and Opacity Grade in a Healthy Population

This study enrolled 61 volunteers (102 eyes) classified into subjects < 50 years (group 1) and subjects >= 50 years (group 2). Dysfunctional Lens Index (DLI); opacity grade; pupil diameter; and corneal, internal, and ocular higher order aberrations (HOAs) were measured with the i-Trace system (Tracey Technologies). Mean DLI was 8.89 +/- 2.00 and 6.71 +/- 2.97 in groups 1 and 2, respectively, being significantly higher in group 1 in all and right eyes (both p < 0.001). DLI correlated significantly with age (Rho = -0.41, p < 0.001) and pupil diameter (Rho = 0.20, p = 0.043) for all eyes, and numerous internal and ocular root-mean square HOAs for right, left, and all eyes (Rho <= -0.25, p <= 0.001). Mean opacity grade was 1.21 +/- 0.63 and 1.48 +/- 1.15 in groups 1 and 2, respectively, with no significant differences between groups (p >= 0.29). Opacity grade significantly correlated with pupil diameter for right and all eyes (Rho <= 0.33, p <= 0.013), and with some ocular root-mean square HOAs for right and all eyes (Rho >= 0.23, p <= 0.020). DLI correlates with age and might be used complementary to other diagnostic measurements for assessing the dysfunctional lens syndrome. Both DLI and opacity grade maintain a relationship with pupil diameter and internal and ocular HOAs, supporting that the algorithms used by the device may be based, in part, on these parameters.

Automated summary

This study found that the Dysfunctional Lens Index (DLI) is correlated with age and pupil diameter, and may be used as a complementary diagnostic measurement for assessing dysfunctional lens syndrome.