This photograph shows an eye with pseudoexfoliation of the lens. The white material on the surface of the cataractous lens rubs on the back surface of the iris, releasing pigment in the eye that clogs the trabecular drain. This can create a PXE glaucoma from insufficient aqueous outflow.

Pseudoexfoliation is also an important finding to note prior to considering cataract surgery. The basement membrane also forms on the lens zonules, making them prone to breaking during surgery … leading to vitreous loss, zonular dehiscense, and even late lens dislocation.

To get a better idea how this eye looks under the microscope, you might want to watch our pseudoexfoliation glaucoma video from which this photo was taken.