Heavy-ion-induced cataractogenesis.

Cataract formation following heavy ion exposure (O+8) was noted in three rhesus monkeys secondary to a study of retinal effects. The pathogenesis of these lens changes follows many, but not all, of the characteristics for "radiation cataracts." The ring-shaped opacity was not noted to occur. Posterior capsular changes were noted initially and followed through the formation of a mature cataract.