Pathologic Myopia (2026)

While often confused with "high myopia," pathologic myopia is distinct because it involves specific degenerative lesions rather than just a high refractive error.

The mechanical stretching of the eye leads to several vision-threatening conditions: A Review of Pathologic Myopia - PubMed Pathologic Myopia

Defined by the International Myopia Institute (IMI) as high myopia accompanied by structural changes such as posterior staphyloma, myopic maculopathy, or optic neuropathy. While often confused with "high myopia," pathologic myopia

Pathologic myopia (PM), also known as degenerative myopia, is a severe form of nearsightedness characterized by excessive elongation of the eyeball (axial length) that leads to structural changes in the posterior segment of the eye . Unlike standard myopia, which can typically be corrected with lenses, pathologic myopia involves progressive and irreversible damage to the retina, choroid, and sclera, making it a leading cause of blindness worldwide, particularly in East Asian countries. Definition and Key Characteristics Unlike standard myopia, which can typically be corrected

Generally defined as a refractive error of diopters or an axial length of ≥26.5is greater than or equal to 26.5