Quantitative analysis of myopic chorioretinal degeneration using a novel computer software program

Abstract

To quantify the fundus color on digital color fundus photographs as a surrogate of myopic chorioretinal degeneration in myopic subjects using a novel computer software program. In this cross-sectional study, the following details were recorded in 152 eyes of 78 myopic subjects: Snellen visual acuity, refractive status, ocular biometric parameters, intraocular pressure, color fundus photography, and myopic chorioretinal degeneration index (MCDI) using an automated computer program. The mean age of the subjects was 32.58 ± 11.12 years (range, 21-62 years). Subjects with aged ≥40 years had a significantly higher MCDI when compared with subjects with aged <40 years (MCDI: age ≥ 40 = 0.519; age < 40 = 0.462, P = 0.000). The MCDI demonstrated a statistically significant and positive relationship with axial length (r = 0.47, P = 0.000) and lens thickness (r = 0.26, P = 0.023). A significant positive relationship was observed between the MCDI and visual acuity (r = 0.30, P = 0.007). The MCDI represents an objective technique for quantitative assessment of chorioretinal degenerative changes in myopic subjects. Older myopic subjects with a relatively higher MCDI and longer axial length may represent a high-risk population who have an increased likelihood of developing visually consequential complications of myopia.