gms | German Medical Science

Purpose: To discuss the causative factors, presenting features, differential diagnosis and the management of Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome (TASS), a severe complication occurring after cataract surgery.

Methods: Data from published studies in the peer-reviewed literature and the prevention guidelines for TASS from the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) will be presented.

Results: TASS is an acute, sterile postoperative inflammatory disorder occurring after cataract surgery. The causes of TASS may be classified into 3 groups: extraocular substances that inadvertently enter the anterior chamber during intraocular surgery, products introduced into the eye as part of the surgical procedure, and irritants on instruments that have accumulated due to inadequate instrument cleaning. TASS is usually mistaken for postoperative endophthalmitis and the differentiating features between the two conditions will be discussed. Management and preventive strategies for TASS will also be presented.

Conclusion: Cataract surgeons should be aware of the possibility and consequences of TASS and take the necessary preventive measures to prevent such a disaster in their clinical practice.