American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Ophthalmology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Long-term corticosteroid use is well-documented to increase the risk of developing cataracts, particularly posterior subcapsular cataracts. Corticosteroids can influence lens metabolism and the distribution of glucocorticoid receptors in the lens epithelial cells, leading to changes that promote cataract formation. These alterations can manifest as the opacification of the lens over extended use, which can interfere with vision clarity.

While glaucoma is also a potential concern with chronic corticosteroid use due to increased intraocular pressure, cataract formation is more directly associated with the lens changes precipitated by steroids. Corneal scarring and dry eye syndrome are not commonly linked to corticosteroid therapy in the same way as cataracts. Thus, cataracts stand out as a significant ocular complication resulting from long-term corticosteroid use.