Analysis of factors associated with axial length development in patients with unilateral congenital cataract.

PURPOSE: To investigate the factors associated with axial length (AL) development in patients with unilateral congenital cataract. METHODS: This retrospective study reviewed clinical records of children with unilateral congenital cataract who underwent surgery at the Joint Shantou International Eye Center from October 2014 to October 2019. Multiple linear regression analysis was utilized to assess the impact of different factors on axial length differences (ALD). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 29. RESULTS: A total of 81 patients were included, aged 5.5 months to 14 years (mean 4.86 ± 3.54 years), including 45 females and 36 males. The AL was significantly longer in affected eyes across all groups (p = 0.003; p < 0.001; p = 0.015; p < 0.001, respectively). A positive correlation between ALD and duration of form deprivation was observed in the 0-1year group (r = 0.679, p = 0.031)), whereas a negative correlation was found in the combined age groups of 1–14 years (r=-0.322, p = 0.006). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that duration of form deprivation (β =-0.307, p = 0.015, 95%CI: [-0.187, -0.021]), degree of lens opacity (β = 0.374, p = 0.041, 95%CI: [0.042, 1.855]), and history of oxygen exposure (β = -0.315, p = 0.025, 95%CI: [-1.843, -0.125]) were significantly associated with ALD. CONCLUSION: The AL was significantly longer in affected eyes across all groups. The duration of form deprivation, degree of lens opacity, and history of oxygen exposure collectively contribute to ALD. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent abnormal ocular development in children with congenital cataract.