| Abstract [eng] |
High myopia is defined by pathological elongation of the axial length and is associated with a wide range of ocular complications. Myopia developing early in childhood before the age of seven is a predictor of high myopia in adulthood. This thesis systematically reviews and analyses the most common complications related to high myopia. The aim of this Thesis was to examine structural changes related to myopic degeneration, compare diagnostic features and outline current management strategies. A literature review was conducted using publications from PubMed, ScienceDirect and relevant clinical guidelines. The findings demonstrate that axial elongation and the formation of posterior staphyloma play a central role in the development of myopic complications. These structural changes contribute to macular thinning, lacquer cracks, choroidal neovascularization, and foveoschisis. In younger individuals, high myopia is frequently observed by peripheral retinal degeneration which is linked to an increased risk of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. In addition, high myopia is also frequently observed together with an earlier onset of posterior subcapsular cataract, suggesting an increased vulnerability of the lens at a younger age. Furthermore, this thesis explores dome-shaped macula (DSM), a condition observed in a substantial proportion of highly myopic eyes. DSM appears to be a multifactorial condition with both protective and detrimental effects on macular integrity, depending on height of the dome and the distribution of biomechanical stress. Optical coherence tomography–based stress simulations support the hypothesis that DSM redistributes mechanical forces away from the central fovea. In case of diagnosis and long-term monitoring of myopic complications an optical coherence tomography, is essential for the accurate diagnosis. |
