Changes in axial length in children measured by noncontact laser interference biometry

Purpose: To report changes in axial length in children measured by noncontact laser interference biometry. Cases and Method: This study was made on 2,514 eyes in 2,514 schoolchildren who complained of failing visual acuity and who could be tested for refraction and axial length using an IOL Master. Changes in axial length were measured in 710 eyes 6 to 12 months later. Findings were analyzed using Spearman rank correlation coefficient. Results: Spherical equivalent of refraction was negatively correlated with the axial length (r= -0.64, p < 0.0001). There was a positive correlation between the axial length and its changes in children aged from 6 to 8 years (r=0.32, p = 0.0002). There was no correlation in children aged 9 to 11 years (r=0.15, p=0.0025) or in those aged 12 to 14 years (r=0.25, p=0.2376). Conclusion: There is a possibility for myopia to rapidly progress in children aged 6 to 8 years who complain of failing visual acuity and who show elongated axial length.