Abstract
Purpose: :
Mechanical factors have been associated with different blood flow parameters related to the eye. Once axial length (AL) was not definitively associated with ocular pulse amplitude (OPA), the aim of this study was to investigate whether OPA and ocular perfusion pressure (OPP) are correlated with AL in normal eyes.
Methods: :
Eighty two adult subjects underwent blood pressure measurement simultaneously with OPA (with dynamic contour tonometer - DCT Pascal®, Ziemer, Switzerland) and intraocular pressure (IOP - Goldmann applanation tonometer) examination (n = 82 right eyes). The relationship between mean OPP (calculated as 2/3 mean arterial pressure - IOP) and OPA with AL was evaluated through linear regression analysis and correlation tests.
Results: :
Mean (±SD) values of OPP, OPA and AL were 53.3±11.6 mmHg, 2.1±0.8 mmHg, and 23.4±1.5 mm, respectively. Spearman's rank tests showed significant correlation between OPA and AL (r= -0.448, P<0.0001). No significant correlation was observed between the other parameters.
Conclusions: :
Based on our results, OPA readings measured with DCT were inversely related to AL, although no significant correlation of OPP with AL and OPA was observed. Considering our results and that OPA and OPP have dependence on the systemic systolic and diastolic pressures, further studies were warranted to elucidate new biomechanical factors interfering in the ocular perfusion in normal and glaucomatous eyes.
Keywords: intraocular pressure • anterior segment • optic flow