Abstract

REFRACTIVE ERRORS: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE IN CHILDREN IN MADAGASCAR

*Rakotoarisoa Rivo Tahiry Rabetafika, Randrianarisoa Hoby Lalaina, Raharimantsoa Onja Lalaina, Miray Louis De Gonzague, Rasamindrakotroka Miora Tantely and Raobela Lea

Abstract

Background: Refractive error can lead amblyopia in children. The aim of study is to evaluate epidemological status of refractive error in children. Methods: It was a cross-sectional, descriptive study done in two Antananarivo Madagascar schools. The population study was children aged 6 to 12 years old. Children had cycloplegic instill before refraction measure. Refraction was measured with automatic refractometer Topcon RM-A3000B. Ametropia have been classified as myopia, hyperopia, simple astigmatism and mixed astigmatism. Finally, slit lamp and fundus examination has been done to exclude any organic pathology that induced visual impairement. Percentage comparison was done by the Chi-2 test (ꭓ2). Data analysis was done with Excel 2010 software and EPI-info 7.1. Results: 414 students were examined. Mean age was 9.02 years old. The male gender was seen for 52.20% in our series. 13.50% had refractive error. Simple astigmatism and hyperopia were the most frequently observed, respectively 30.40% and 30.02%. Conclusion: Refractive error is a frequent in children. A systematic examination before primary school is necessary to avoid amblyopia.

Keywords: Refractive error, ametropia, hyperopia, astigmatism, children, amblyopia.