Pseudoexfoliation can be identified when a flaky, dandruff-like material peels off the outer layer of the lens in the eye.

This material collects in the angle between the cornea and the iris to the point that it can clog the drainage system of the eye. This clogging can cause an increase of the eye pressure and may lead to a type of glaucoma called pseudoexfoliative glaucoma or PXE glaucoma. Extra effort is needed in keeping a close eye on intraocular pressures, visual fields, and optic nerve changes, as PXE glaucoma tends to be aggressive. Often medication must be supplemented with LASER treatments. Of all the types of glaucoma, Pseudoexfoliation responds very well to laser therapy.

Also, it is important to detect PXE before cataract surgery. This is because the material makes the zonules (the "springs" supporting the lens) weak. The zonules can break during cataract surgery and make the surgery more risky.

PXE can be diagnosed during a full dilated eye exam by your eye doctor.

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