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Early corneal and optic nerve changes in a paediatric population affected by obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

Erika Bonacci1, Adriano Fasolo1, Marco Zaffanello2

  • 1Eye Clinic, Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Pz.Le LA Scuro 10, 37100, Verona, VR, Italy.

International Ophthalmology
|November 5, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is linked to early changes in the cornea and optic nerve. These findings suggest potential precursors to adult eye complications associated with OSAS.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatrics
  • Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • The link between Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) and eye diseases is established in adults.
  • Data on ocular manifestations in pediatric OSAS are scarce and conflicting.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate early corneal, macular, and optic nerve changes in children diagnosed with OSAS.
  • To identify potential precursors to adult ocular complications associated with OSAS.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study of children aged ≥4 years with suspected OSAS.
  • Diagnosis of OSAS based on respiratory polygraphy (Apnea-Hypopnea Index > 1).
  • Comprehensive eye examinations including corneal tomography and optical coherence tomography.

Main Results:

  • Statistically significant differences in corneal asymmetry and thinnest corneal thickness between OSAS and non-OSAS groups.
  • Elevated average and nasal quadrant retinal nerve fibre layer thickness in children with OSAS.
  • Prevalence of OSAS was 48.6% in the study cohort.

Conclusions:

  • Children newly diagnosed with OSAS exhibit early corneal and optic nerve alterations.
  • These findings may indicate preclinical signs of ocular disease in pediatric OSAS.
  • Comprehensive eye screening is valuable for children with OSAS.
Abstract

Keywords:
KeratoconusOSASObstructive sleep apnoea syndromePaediatric ophthalmologyRNFLSleep respiratory disorders

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