Evolution of Dome-shaped Macula Is Due to Differential Elongation of the Eye Predominant in the Peri-dome Region.

PURPOSE: To determine the mechanism behind macular bulge height increase in eyes with dome-shaped macula (DSM).

DESIGN

Retrospective, observational case series.

METHODS

Eyes presenting with DSM followed up for a minimum of 1 year were examined using ocular biometry and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography at baseline and at end of follow-up. Axial length (AL), DSM bulge height, and central and peripheral choroidal thickness (nasal, temporal, superior, and inferior quadrants) were reported. Eyes were categorized into 2 groups for comparison: the "mini-DSM" group (DSM < 100 μm) and the "classic" DSM group (DSM > 100 μm).

RESULTS

Fifty-eight eyes (33 patients) were studied: 32 (55%) were classic DSM and 26 (45%) mini-DSM. During the mean follow-up of 51.76 ± 36.01 months, mean AL increased from 26.99 ± 2.94 mm to 27.12 ± 3.09 mm (P = .010) and mean macular bulge height increased from 235.88 ± 282.47 μm to 262.34 ± 317.15 μm (P < .001). DSM height change was significantly higher than AL change (P < .001). Mean peripheral choroidal thickness significantly decreased nasally (P = .008), temporally (P = .026), and inferiorly (P < .001). Mini-DSM eyes exhibited shorter AL (26.17 vs 27.66 mm; P = .027), greater visual acuity (0.169 vs 0.437 logMAR; P = .002), and fewer macular complications compared to classic DSM eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

Macular bulge increase in DSM is associated with eye elongation and overall thinning of the peripheral choroid. DSM might result from differential elongation of the eye predominant in the peri-dome region. Mini-DSM (ie, inferior to 100 μm) are characterized by slower evolution, better visual prognosis, and fewer complications compared to "classic" DSM.