Analysis of anterior segment and corneal properties in specific learning disorder via Scheimpflug imaging.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the alterations in anterior segment properties, corneal topography and densitometry in patients with Specific Learning Disorder (SLD). METHODS: This prospective, cross-sectional study consisted of 30 children with SLD and 30 age- and gender-matched controls. Corneal topography and densitometry were assessed using the Pentacam HR-Scheimpflug imaging system. Variables including keratometry readings, corneal thickness, volume, anterior chamber depth (ACD), and densitometry values were compared. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 10.2±2.9 years of whom 15 (50%) were male. Both groups had similar best-corrected visual acuity and cycloplegic autorefraction values (p>0.05 for both). Corneal topographic measurements and densitometry values showed no significant differences, except for ACD, which was significantly shallower in the SLD group (p=0.001). The remaining anterior segment parameters and aberrations did not differ significantly. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals that children with SLD exhibit a shallower anterior chamber compared to controls. The findings suggest a potential link between SLD and anterior segment changes, highlighting the need for further research on the ocular manifestations of SLD. Ophthalmologists should be vigilant for anterior chamber anomalies in children with SLD, as these may indicate a risk for future ocular complications.