Predicting myopic changes in children wearing glasses using the Plusoptix photoscreener

Abstract

Introduction: With high increase in myopia prevalence, we aimed to assess whether Plusoptix_A09 can be used in myopic children over spectacles to predict visual acuity (VA) and myopic refraction changes. Methods: Myopic children underwent a complete ophthalmological examination. Plusoptix_A09 was performed over spectacles. VA changes, refraction changes and time since previous glasses prescription, were determined. Age, current or past history of amblyopia, presence of strabismus and self-perception of VA changes were registered. Results: In total, 199 patients were included. Spherical power (SP) and spherical equivalent (SE) measured by Plusoptix_A09 over spectacles predicted both VA changes (p < 0.001) and refraction changes (p < 0.001). Values of SP < − 0.06D or SE < − 0.22D indicated a VA decrease (AUC > 0.9, p < 0.01) for sensitivity and specificity of 85.1%, 82.1% and 82.6%, 83.3%, respectively. Age and ophthalmological comorbidities did not influence Plusoptix_A09 measurements (p > 0.05). Plusoptix_A09 over spectacles was a stronger predictor of VA changes when compared to children's self-perception, either in 4–9-year-old patients (p < 0.001 versus p = 0.628) and in 10–18-year-old children (OR