Myopic Optic Neuropathy in Chinese High Myopia Population

Global prevalence of high myopia brings about markedly increasing of blinding complications as myopic optic neuropathy (MON) and glaucoma. It was estimated that there were 163 million people who have high myopia in 2000, and the population with high myopia would increase to almost one billion (9.8% of the world population) worldwide by 2050.

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide while it is difficult to distinguish glaucoma among MON in high myopia eyes. However, there lack longitudinal study to illustrate the natural course interpreting the distribution and natural history of MON.

In view of the above problems, this is a longitudinal registry cohort study to observe the long-term changes of structural and functional parameters of MON in high myopia, and to investigate the natural course and associted risk factors that influence the progression in a Chinese adult population.

Inclusion criteria

• Age ≥18 years
• Equivalent spherical ≤-6D or axial length ≥26.5mm
• Best corrected visual acuity ≥ 6/12

Exclusion criteria

• Unwilling or unable to give consent, or unable to return for scheduled protocol visits.
• Glaucoma secondary to penetrating keratoplasty, trauma, steroids, retinal disease/surgery, or neovascular disease.
• Obvious corneal and iris lesions, or severe cataracts interfering with fundus examinations, VF test or monophthalmia.
• Need for ocular surgery/laser or anticipated need for cataract surgery during the study period.
• Other serious systemic diseasesf (i.e. hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, or rheumatic immune system diseases);
• Pregnant or nursing women