Evaluation of Peripapillary Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer and Macular Thickness in Myopic Patients by Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
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Date
2024-12
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Publisher
International Research Organization for Life & Health Sciences
Abstract
Background: Myopia is a prevalent refractive error characterized by light focusing in front of the retina, with projections indicating that nearly 50% of the global population could be affected by 2050. Myopia-related changes in retinal structure, especially in the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and macula, are observable with Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). This study aimed to assess RNFL and macular thickness variations across different grades of myopia (mild, moderate, and high) using spectral domain OCT. Materials and Methodology: This prospective, observational study was conducted at the Ruxmaniben Deepchand Gardi Medical College, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, with a sample of 96 patients aged ?15 years diagnosed with axial myopia. Participants were categorized into three groups based on spherical equivalent: Low (?1D–<?3D), moderate (?3D–<?6D), and high (??6D) myopia. Comprehensive ocular exams were performed, including visual acuity, non-cycloplegic and cycloplegic refractions, intraocular pressure measurements, and axial length assessment. RNFL and macular thickness were measured in four primary peripapillary sectors and twelve sub-quadrants using spectral domain optical coherence tomography, with all data systematically recorded and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Results: The study found a significant correlation between myopia severity and RNFL thickness (P = 0.000), with increased myopia associated with progressive thinning in the temporal, superior, nasal, and inferior quadrants. In addition, macular measurements showed that higher myopia correlated with decreased inner and outer macular thickness and macular volume, though subfoveal thickness increased. These results indicate that axial myopia in young adults is associated with structural retinal changes, notably RNFL thinning and macular volume reduction. Conclusion: This study confirms that higher degrees of myopia are associated with early structural changes in the retina, particularly in RNFL and macular thickness. Regular OCT monitoring may be crucial for early detection and differentiation of myopia-induced retinal changes from glaucoma, helping to inform clinical management and intervention strategies for progressive myopia cases.
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Keywords
Myopia, Retinal nerve fiber layer, Macular thickness, Optical coherence tomography, Axial myopia, Retinal nerve fiber layer thinning
Citation
Hardia Y, Mehta S, Gupta K, Mehta M.. Evaluation of Peripapillary Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer and Macular Thickness in Myopic Patients by Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography. International Journal of Scientific Study. 2024 Dec; 12(9): 29-34