Changes of intraocular pressure and refractive status in children following cycloplegic refraction with 1% cyclopentolate and 1% tropicamide

PurposeTo evaluate the effect of cycloplegic mydriasis with 1% cyclopentolate and 1% tropicamide on the intraocular pressure (IOP) and refractive status of children for cycloplegic refraction and compare the IOP and refractive changes between hyperopic and myopic groups.MethodsThis study was designed as a retrospective cohort study. Ninety one children received cycloplegic mydriasis. The IOP was measured with a noncontact tonometer before cycloplegic administration. One drop of 1% cyclopentolate was administered, which was followed by two drops of 1% tropicamide at an interval of 10 minutes. The IOP was then measured 30 minutes after tropicamide instillation. Autorefraction was assessed with an autorefractometer before and after cycloplegic mydriasis.ResultsThe mean age of the 44 girls and 47 boys was 7.3 ± 2.4 years. The mean precycloplegic IOP was 14.45 ± 2.47 mmHg and the mean postcycloplegic IOP was 15.06 ± 3.08 mmHg in all eyes. A significant difference was noted in the IOP change (p = 0.033). In the 39 hyperopic eyes, the mean precycloplegic IOP and postcycloplegic IOP were 14.54 ± 2.53 mmHg and 15.69 ± 3.35 mmHg, respectively. There was a significant difference in the IOP change (p = 0.008). In the 52 myopic eyes, the mean precycloplegic IOP and postcycloplegic IOP were 14.38 ± 2.44 mmHg and 14.61 ± 2.80 mmHg, respectively (p = 0.72). There was no significant IOP change in the myopic group. The postcycloplegic IOP was significantly different between the hyperopic and the myopic groups (p = 0.021). Three eyes (3.3%) had an IOP elevation more than 5.0 mmHg after cycloplegic mydriasis. Postcycloplegic refraction showed significant hyperopic shifts in all eyes (p < 0.0001).ConclusionCycloplegic mydriasis with 1% cyclopentolate and 1% tropicamide caused IOP changes in preschool and school-aged children with hyperopia. Ophthalmologists should be very cautious in monitoring IOP changes for children with cycloplegic medication use.