pathologic myopia

[mthiker123]

I have a question on pathologic myopia. I've been reading several websites, and can't seem to find a set definition. I have high myopia (-9.5 diopter both eyes, astigmatism of -3 both eyes, both stable for at least ten years) 2 stable atrophic holes on the right eye, and a small amount of stable lattice in both eyes. Vision is corrected to 20/20 with GP contact lenses. I am 39 years old. My oph. has mentioned no signs of other pathology and stated that my macula looks normal.   Am I a pathologic myope, or just a high myope with lattice and atrophic holes?  Thanks for your help.

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear mthiker123,
Usually, pathologic myopia refers to a condition in which vision is decreased, and the length of the eye is extremely long, above 26 mm.  The retina often shows abnormalities due to the thinning.  This condition may be inherited and is associated with some serious retinal issues such as neovascularization or new blood vessel formation in the area of one’s finest or central acuity.  From your description, it does not sound as if you have pathological myopia; however, I would recommend that you specifically ask your eyeMD.

Dr. Feldman

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Okay
JCH MD

[mthiker123]

Please disregard my 2 previous comments and my question, I just had it answered by another ophthamologist (my neighbor!). No answer is needed, thankyou.

[mthiker123]

Could Dr. Hagan please answer this for me when he has a chance, he has answered a few questions in the past for me. (No offense to other Dr.s, but I really trust his opinion, thanks)