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MEDTECH A look at the pathologies connected to pediatric myopia advancement and the clinical procedures and remedies for those who have the disease.
Pediatric myopia, a condition affecting nearly a quarter of the world’s population, is a complex issue with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development. The condition’s prevalence varies among different ethnicities and geographic locations, and it often increases with age during childhood. This article delves into the risks, complications, and potential treatments associated with pediatric myopia.
Key Points:
- Myopia prevalence often increases with age during childhood.
- Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to pediatric myopia.
- Myopia onset at a younger age not only increases the risk of further progression, it elevates the risk of ocular disease during a patient’s lifetime.
- Structural changes resulting from pathological myopia may create deformities in the sclera, choroid, and retina.
- Myopia also affects the optic nerve and crystalline lens.
Additional Points:
- Refractive and binocular vision dysfunction risks increase in children younger than 10 years with myopia.
- Peripheral retinal findings, which include lattice degeneration and retinal holes, are common in children with high myopia.
- Myopic progression can also increase the risk of glaucomatous optic neuropathy, and myopia before the age of 20 years is a risk factor for cataract development.
- Treating and monitoring pediatric myopia progression is crucial, and children with myopia, or those who are predisposed to it, must undergo routine comprehensive eye examinations.
Conclusion:
- Pediatric myopia is a prevalent condition with serious potential complications. It is crucial to monitor and treat this condition effectively to mitigate the risks associated with myopia progression. As research continues, current treatments offer a promising pathway to protect children from the effects of high and degenerative myopia.
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“Optometrists can employ various therapies to prevent or slow myopia progression. These interventions, which include atropine treatment, orthokeratology, and multifocal spectacle or contact lenses, not only slow axial and SER progression, they can also help mitigate potential pathologies.”
Anthony Boyd, OD
