Evaluating the Cycloplegic Effect of Tropicamide in Pediatric Patients with Refractive Error

Open Access

Abstract

Introduction: Refractive errors constitute a notable global health concern, particularly affecting children, where uncorrected issues can lead to academic and developmental challenges. Cycloplegic refraction is pivotal in assessing pediatric refractive status due to its precision in inhibiting accommodation. However, the choice of cycloplegic agent is crucial, with varying effects observed. This study aimed to evaluate the cycloplegic impact of Tropicamide in pediatric refractive error cases. Methods & Materials: This quasi-experimental study was conducted at the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics in collaboration with the Ophthalmology Department of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Rajshahi. This study was conducted over 1 year, from July 2021 to June 2022. The study involved 49 young children (98 eyes) with an age range of 2 - 10 years and refractive error. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 23.0. Ethical approval of this study was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Rajshahi Medical College. Results: The study involved 49 young children and analyzed their refractive errors. Most were 6-8 years old, with slightly more girls (53%) than boys. Myopia was present in 53% of respondents, while hypermetropia was found in 47%. The cycloplegic effect of 1% tropicamide on hyperopic children's eyes was +2.79 D, with some variation. For myopic children, the effect was -5.28 D, with a wider variation. Common adverse effects included eye irritation and redness (24.5%). No serious side effects were reported. Age did not significantly differ between myopic and hyperopic children (p>0.05), but gender showed an association, with myopia more common in girls (61%) and hypermetropia in boys (69.6%) (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study assessed 1% tropicamide eye drops in pediatric refractive error cases, confirming higher prevalence in 6-8-year-olds with myopia dominance. Consistent with prior research, cycloplegic effects were as expected, and minimal adverse events were noted. Gender, but not age, correlated with refractive error, supporting safe and effective clinical use.