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The rapid change of corneal curvature in the neonatal period and infancy
Insights
Corneal curvature in newborns changes rapidly in early weeks, with premature infants showing higher initial values. This rapid change slows significantly after 8 weeks, impacting ocular refractive status.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatal Studies
- Optometry
Background:
- Corneal curvature is a critical factor in infant visual development.
- Understanding refractive status changes in newborns is essential for early detection of visual impairments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure and compare corneal curvature in premature and mature newborns.
- To analyze the longitudinal changes in corneal curvature during early infancy.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a rearranged automated keratometer for precise measurements.
- Conducted a consecutive study involving 18 newborns (premature and mature).
- Monitored corneal curvature changes over several weeks post-birth.
Main Results:
- Mean keratometry values were higher in premature (49.50 D) versus mature (47.00 D) newborns.
- Observed rapid corneal curvature changes from 49.01 D to 45.98 D within the first 2-4 weeks.
- Corneal curvature stabilization noted after 8 weeks, reaching 44.60 D.
Conclusions:
- Infant corneal curvature undergoes significant early changes, particularly in the first month.
- The rate of corneal curvature change may not align with axial length increases after 12 weeks.
- Lenticular power adjustments are likely necessary to maintain stable ocular refraction in infants.
Abstract:
We measured the radii of corneal curvature of premature and mature newborns, using a rearranged automated keratometer and carried out a consecutive study in 18 of the newborns. The mean keratometry value in diopters (D) for seven premature babies was 49.50 D; that for 11 mature babies 47.00 D. The change of corneal curvature over time was observed in eight newborns (16 eyes). It showed rapid change from 49.01 to 45.98 D during 2 to 4 weeks of life and became very slow after 8 weeks of life (44.60 D). It would appear that the change of corneal curvature does not keep pace with the increase of axial length after 12 weeks of life, and constant ocular refractive status probably requires substantial changes in lenticular power.
