Synergistic efficacy of orthokeratology and 0.01% atropine in controlling pediatric myopia progression: A retrospective analysis

J Investig Med. 2025 Mar;73(3):290-299. doi: 10.1177/10815589241308819. Epub 2025 Jan 23.

Abstract

This study investigates the combined efficacy of orthokeratology lenses and 0.01% atropine in controlling the progression of pediatric progressive myopia. The study, conducted retrospectively on 33 children aged 8-14, measured key parameters, including axial length growth, uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), tear film breakup time (TBUT), and pupil diameter. The results revealed a significant reduction in axial length growth with the combined treatment compared to orthokeratology alone, while UCVA and IOP remained stable. TBUT decreased, and pupil diameter increased post-treatment. The findings suggest that combining orthokeratology with low-dose atropine offers a safe and effective strategy for managing pediatric myopia, particularly in younger patients.

Keywords: Childhood myopia; atropine; axial length growth; myopia control; orthokeratology lenses; pediatric ophthalmology.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Atropine* / administration & dosage
  • Atropine* / pharmacology
  • Atropine* / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Disease Progression*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Myopia* / drug therapy
  • Myopia* / physiopathology
  • Myopia* / therapy
  • Orthokeratologic Procedures* / methods
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Visual Acuity

Substances

  • Atropine