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Diurnal variation in corneo-scleral morphology
Laura Barberán-Bernardos1, Miguel Ángel Ariza-Gracia2, David P Piñero3
1Department of Optics, Pharmacology and Anatomy, University of Alicante, Alicante, Spain.
Journal of Optometry
|November 24, 2025
Summary
The sclera (the white outer layer of the eye) shows no significant diurnal changes in key measurements like sagittal height and bulbar slope. However, some lifestyle habits may influence these scleral parameters.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Ocular Biomechanics
Background:
- The sclera, a crucial structural component of the eye, plays a role in maintaining intraocular pressure and refractive error.
- Understanding diurnal variations in scleral morphology is essential for accurate ophthalmic assessments and myopia progression studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate diurnal variations in scleral morphological parameters, specifically sagittal height (SH) and bulbar slope (BS).
- To explore potential correlations between daily lifestyle habits and observed variations in these scleral parameters.
Main Methods:
- A prospective observational study involving healthy adult participants.
- Corneo-scleral morphology was assessed at five timepoints using the Pentacam HR system.
- Lifestyle habits were documented via questionnaire, and coefficients of variation (CV) for SH and BS were calculated.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant diurnal variations were found for scleral SH or BS (p ≥ 0.069).
- Correlations were observed between lifestyle factors (morning face washing, breakfast, coffee intake, screen time) and variations in scleral parameters.
- Sex-related differences in minimum BS and astigmatic SH were noted.
Conclusions:
- The diurnal profile of the corneo-scleral structure in healthy eyes is stable.
- While lifestyle habits may show trends associated with scleral variation, further research is needed for definitive conclusions.
