Long-term Changes in the Spherical Equivalent and Axial Length in Bilateral High-hyperopia Children

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To explore changes in the spherical equivalent refractive error and axial length of both eyes of children with high hyperopia over time. METHODS: Children with bilateral hyperopia ≥ 4.0 diopters (D) underwent visual acuity testing and comprehensive ophthalmic examinations. The mean age at the first visit was 6.5 years and spherical equivalent refractive error and axial length were measured at least three times over the following year. Axial length was measured using an intraocular lens Master instrument (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Jena, Germany). RESULTS: The mean annual increase in axial length was +0.21 mm and the mean annual reduction in spherical equivalent refractive error was −0.39 D. Between the ages of 3 and 5 years, the mean annual increase in axial length was +0.36 ± 0.26 mm. In patients aged ≥ 9 years old, the mean annual increase was +0.12 ± 0.09 mm (p = 0.00). The mean annual reduction in spherical equivalent refractive error was −0.53 ± 1.00 D between the ages of 3 and 5 years, but became −.32 ± 0.54 D at age ≥ 9 years old. This difference was not significant (p = 0.11). CONCLUSIONS: In children with bilateral hyperopia, the spherical equivalent refractive error decreased and the axial length increased with age. The rate of axial length growth was higher in younger children.