Refraction changes slowly and is affected by accommodation, so it is a noisy way to judge whether myopia control is working. Where optical biometry is available, record axial length at baseline and every six to twelve months, using the same device each time. Compare growth with age-expected norms; a child whose eye is still lengthening quickly may need a change of strategy, while slow growth confirms the treatment is doing its job. Use cycloplegic refraction alongside, and record outdoor time and near work at each visit.
- Measure axial length at baseline and every 6 to 12 months on the same device
- Use cycloplegic refraction alongside axial length
- Compare growth with age-expected norms to judge response
- Record outdoor time and near work at each visit
Why it matters
Axial length predicts long-term myopic complications better than refraction alone.
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