Predicting myopic changes in children wearing glasses using the Plusoptix photoscreener

Introduction: With high increase in myopia prevalence, we aimed to assess if Plusoptix_A09 can be used in myopic children over spectacles to predicted visual acuity (VA) and myopic refraction changes. Methods: Myopic children underwent a complete ophthalmological examination. Plusoptix_A09 was performed over spectacles. VA changes, refraction changes and time since previous glasses prescription, were determined. Age, current or past history of amblyopia, presence of strabismus and self-perception of VA changes were registered. Results: 199 patients were included. Spherical power (SP) and spherical equivalent (SE) measured by Plusoptix_A09 over spectacles predicted both VA changes (p<.001) and refraction changes (p<.001). Values of SP<-0.06D or SE0.9, p0.05). Plusoptix_A09 over spectacles was a stronger predictor of VA changes when compared to children's self-perception, either in 4-9-year-old patients (p<.001 versus p=.628) and in 10-18-year-old children (OR<=0.066 versus OR=0.190). A decrease in SP and SE of -0.10D in Plusoptix_A09 predicted a myopia progression of -0.04D and -0.05D, respectively. Conclusion: /Relevance This study unveiled new features for the Plusoptix, a worldwide available photoscreener used in amblyopia screening. When Plusoptix is performed in children with their glasses on, it can rapidly predict myopia progression. For each decrease of -0.10D in Plusoptix, a myopia progression of -0.05D, is expected. Moreover, Plusoptix is more reliable than children's self-perception of visual acuity changes, making it a useful tool either in primary care or ophthalmology practice.