Glaukos Issued J-Code for Recently Launched Epioxa

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Glaukos commercially launches its topical drug therapy for keratoconus; BVI’s next-generation phaco-vitrectomy surgical system receives CE Mark; and the ASCRS Executive Director recaps the 2nd annual Sightline meeting.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Beyond the Diopter: Myopia’s Mark on the Retina and Choroid

Watch out for posterior segment complications in this patient population.

Vyoma Shinde, OD

Modern Optometry

Myopia affects 30% of the global population and is predicted to reach nearly 50% by 2050.1,2 As the severity of myopia increases, certain mechanical and vascular stresses are placed on the posterior segment, which can intensify or contribute to various structural complications. While it may seem convenient and natural to use spherical equivalent as the standard clinical metric for judging myopia severity, it can also be helpful to evaluate axial length, which offers a more direct understanding of structural risk. After all, just a 1-mm increase in axial length increases myopia by 3.00 D.3 This article reviews the changes that occur in the retina and choroid with varying levels of myopia and offers insights on risk stratification and early intervention. LOW MYOPIA In low myopia (-3.00 D or better, 24.5 mm to 25 mm), fundus appearance is typically similar to an emmetrope or low hyperope, but subtle changes can be observed. Early signs include mild tessellation (Figure 1), which reflects thinning of the choroid and increased visibility of the choroidal vasculature beneath the retina.4 Occasionally, benign peripheral retinal findings or lattice may be seen. Foveal contour and retinal thickness are typically intact and within normal limits. Choroidal thickness remains relatively well-preserved at 250 µm to 300 µm.5 Clinically, these patients are at a low risk of serious complications; however, documenting axial length and obtaining baseline imaging is recommended to track progression and enable future comparisons. Figure 1. Fundus photography of the right (A, -2.00 D) and left (B, -0.50 D) eye of a patient with low myopia shows mild tessellation in the right eye and, to a lesser extent, the left eye. MODERATE MYOPIA Moderate myopia (-3.25 D to -6.00 D, 25 mm to 26.5 mm) typically presents with changes in the structure and vasculature of the retina and choroid compared with low myopia.

Interview with ASCRS Executive Director Steve Speares

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The Executive Director of The American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) previews the upcoming annual meeting and discusses the most pressing issues facing ophthalmology.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices