Effect of cycloplegia on corneal biometrics and refractive state

PURPOSE: To determine changes in refractive state and corneal parameters after cycloplegia with cyclopentolate hydrochloride 1% using a dual Scheimpflug imaging system. METHODS: In this prospective cross-sectional study patients aged 10 to 40 years who were referred for optometric evaluation enrolled and underwent autorefraction and corneal imaging with the Galilei dual Scheimpflug system before and 30 minutes after twice instillation of medication. Changes in refraction and astigmatism were investigated. Corneal biometrics including anterior and posterior corneal curvatures, total corneal power and corneal pachymetry were compared before and after cycloplegia. RESULTS: < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: Cycloplegia causes a hyperopic shift and astigmatism axis changes, along with an increase in central and paracentral corneal thickness and change in posterior corneal curvature. The effects of cycloplegia on refraction and corneal biometrics should be considered before cataract and refractive surgeries.