Posterior segment conditions associated with myopia and high myopia

Clin Exp Optom. 2020 Nov;103(6):756-765. doi: 10.1111/cxo.13060. Epub 2020 Mar 29.

Abstract

Myopia, and especially high myopia, is associated with a number of posterior segment changes that are considered to be mostly a consequence of the increased axial elongation. This can result in mechanical strain, attendant vascular changes, stretching and thinning of tissues, and atrophy/deformation of tissues in later or more advanced stages. Such myopia-related changes are observed as changes and/or abnormalities in the vitreous, choroid, retina and peripheral retina, sclera and/or optic disc. Although many of these changes are benign, at times they may be associated with significant vision impairment that either requires active intervention or may suggest future progression of the disease. This review systematically addresses the posterior segment conditions seen in myopic eyes, describes the features associated with the condition and details management pathways.

Keywords: high myopia; myopia; posterior segment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Choroid
  • Humans
  • Myopia*
  • Optic Disk*
  • Retina
  • Sclera