Lacquer cracks in pathological myopia: a clinical review

Lacquer cracks, described as breaks in the Bruch's membrane, are unique lesions in the spectrum of fundus changes associated with pathological myopia. Lacquer cracks are generally believed to be relatively innocuous lesions by themselves; however, progression to other features of myopic macular degeneration, such as patchy chorioretinal atrophy and choroidal neovascularization, may result in irreversible visual impairment. With the rising prevalence of pathological myopia to epidemic proportions, particularly in the Asian countries, ophthalmologists expect to encounter lacquer cracks more frequently in clinical practice. Therefore, it is crucial for the ophthalmic community to be aware of lacquer cracks and to actively look for these lesions in myopic patients so that early detection and close monitoring can help prevent blinding complications. This article provides a comprehensive review on lacquer cracks in eyes with pathological myopia from a clinical perspective.