CORRELATION BETWEEN AXIAL LENGTH AND THE OCCURRENCE OF REFRACTIVE ERRORS

Abstract

Background: Refractive errors result in difficulty in focusing on an object clearly, leading to blurred vision. A recent study by the WHO has reported that refractive errors have become the leading cause of visual impairment. The development of refractive errors has been a significant concern over the last two decades due to its high prevalence worldwide. One possible condition that may occur in individuals with refractive errors is a change in axial length. Axial length is defined as a measurement from the corneal surface to the retinal surface. Aims: To analyze the correlation between axial length and the occurrence of refractive errors in myopia and hypermetropia patients at the Ophthalmology Department of Diponegoro National Hospital. Methods: This observational analytical study with a cross-sectional design was conducted on 36 eyes from 18 patients; each suffering from myopia and hypermetropia at the Ophthalmology Department of Diponegoro National Hospital. Patients provided informed consent and then the axial length was measured using ultrasound biometry. Data analysis was performed using univariate analysis and Spearman correlation bivariate analysis. Results: The results of the Spearman statistical test showed a significant correlation between the axial length and the occurrence of myopia (p=0.003) with a moderate correlation strength and the occurrence of hypermetropia (p=0.000001) with a strong correlation strength. Conclusion: The axial length has a significant correlation with the occurrence of refractive errors, especially in myopia and hypermetropia patients.