Evaluating efficacy of 0.125% atropine using a myopia progression machine learning model

Chang Yoon Han1, Sa Ra Kim1, Dae Hee Kim2,3

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Kim's Eye Hospital, #136 Yeongsin-ro, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, 07301, Republic of Korea.

Insights

Low-dose atropine eye drops effectively slowed childhood myopia progression compared to a machine learning prediction model. This study highlights the potential of machine learning in evaluating myopia treatment efficacy.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Ophthalmology
  • Artificial Intelligence in Medicine

Background:

  • Childhood myopia is a growing public health concern.
  • Accurate prediction of myopia progression is crucial for effective intervention.
  • Machine learning (ML) models offer potential for predicting disease trajectories.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the utility of an ML model in predicting natural myopia progression in children.
  • To evaluate the inhibitory effects of 0.125% atropine on childhood myopia progression using the ML model as a comparator.
  • To determine the myopia suppression rate attributed to 0.125% atropine treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective cohort study involving 397 children treated with 0.125% atropine eye drops.
  • Participants were grouped by treatment duration (6, 12, 18, 24, 30 months).
  • Comparison of actual spherical equivalent (SE) with ML-predicted SE to calculate myopia suppression rate.

Main Results:

  • Treatment with 0.125% atropine resulted in significantly less myopic outcomes than predicted by the ML model, except in the 6-month group.
  • The mean myopia suppression rate was 53.5%, indicating effective inhibition of progression.
  • The ML model predicted a more advanced myopia progression compared to the actual treatment outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • 0.125% atropine treatment demonstrates efficacy in suppressing myopia progression in children.
  • ML models can serve as valuable tools for predicting myopia progression and evaluating treatment effectiveness.
  • This approach aids in understanding the natural course of myopia and the impact of interventions.
Abstract