Anterior segment dimensions in Asian and Caucasian eyes measured by optical coherence tomography

Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging. 2012 Mar-Apr;43(2):135-42. doi: 10.3928/15428877-20120102-03. Epub 2012 Feb 9.

Abstract

Background and objective: To compare Asian and Caucasian anterior segment dimensions measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Patients and methods: Anterior segment OCT images were obtained in normal subjects. Four line scans were acquired at the 90°, 45°, 0°, and 135° meridians of each eye. Computer calipers acquired anterior segment dimensions of corneal diameter, anterior chamber width, corneal vault, and anterior chamber depth on OCT images. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess correlations.

Results: Corneal diameter was 0.5 mm narrower (P < .01), anterior chamber width was 0.46 mm narrower (P < .01), and corneal vault was 0.22 mm lower (P < .01) in Asian eyes. All anterior segment dimensions decreased with age.

Conclusion: Asian eyes had smaller anterior segments compared to Caucasian eyes. Regardless of race, anterior segment dimensions were smaller in older subjects. Age-related changes may affect the tolerability of long-term implants such as phakic intraocular lenses.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anterior Eye Segment / anatomy & histology*
  • Asian People*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Prospective Studies
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence*
  • White People*
  • Young Adult