What does 'nuclear dot opacity' mean?

Question

A few years ago, an eye doctor told me that I had 'nuclear dot opacity.' I've searched the internet for this phrase, but all I get are medical documents, which are difficult for an ignoramus like me to understand.

I know that my doctor was describing some sort of cataract, and that the condition developed while I was still just a fetus. The doctor did express some surprise that my cataracts never fully developed, and mentioned that most children born with this condition require surgery. I feel quite lucky to have 20/20 vision.

But what does it all mean? I can't ask the same doctor, as he's moved his practice out of state. Does anyone know what 'nuclear dot opacity' means, and whether I should be concerned about developing cataracts in the future?

Answer 1

Take a look at the website below, it's pretty brief but really all you need to know.  Your cataract did not develop enough to interfere with your vision (the reason it would require surgery) and should not progress further.  You, like everyone else, will eventually (if you live long enough) get other form/forms of cataracts and may need surgery later on, but like I said, the congenital cataract you now have will not progress.

You can also find more information by searching for congenital cataracts.

http://dro.hs.columbia.edu/fetalnucl.htm