Prevalence of Idiopathic Macular Hole in a Specialized Ophthalmological Referral Center: A Retrospective
Gerardo Ledesma-Gil1,2, Braulio Hernan Velasco Sepulveda3, Paulina Bueno Zarazua1
1Retina Department, Institute of Ophthalmology Fundacion Conde de Valenciana, Mexico City, MEX.
Background:
An idiopathic macular hole (IMH) is a foveal opening in the neurosensory retina caused by perifoveal vitreomacular traction and detachment. IMH prevalence varies considerably across populations, highlighting a need for further investigation, especially in underrepresented groups such as Hispanics.
Methods:
This retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study analyzed IMH prevalence in a Hispanic population over four years. Electronic records of patients were reviewed at a single referral center. All patients aged 18 years and above who presented for a first-time comprehensive ophthalmology evaluation were included. IMH diagnosis was clinically made and confirmed with optical coherence tomography (OCT). Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics, adhering to Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines.
Results:
Of 116,655 electronic records analyzed from March 2018 to July 2022, 397 subjects were identified in our analysis. The estimated prevalence of IMH was 0.34% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.307-0.375), with a female-to-male ratio of 4:1. The mean age of the participants was 67.75 ± 9.38 years. Initial visual acuity, laterality, comorbidities, and clinical findings were assessed. No significant gender differences were documented. Subgroup analyses revealed significant age discrepancies based on comorbidities and clinical symptoms.
Conclusions:
Our study provides insight into the prevalence of IMHs in a Hispanic population. Its findings are similar to those published for other populations. The observed prevalence emphasizes the importance of proactive screening for IMHs in older patients, especially if they are women. Clinical markers such as the Watzke-Allen sign are helpful in the early detection of IMHs.
