PhD defence M. (Monica) Ravenstijn

Brief summary of the doctoral thesis:

This thesis investigates the treatment of myopia complications in European patients and aims to advance ophthalmic care for myopia. The introduction highlights the concerning rise in myopia and its associated complications, such as myopic macular degeneration, macular neovascularization, and retinal detachment, emphasizing the need for further clinical research.

The research includes a comprehensive analysis of retinal complications in myopia, focusing particularly on myopic macular neovascularization (MNV). Results indicate that intravitreal bevacizumab injections (IVB) are beneficial for short-term visual outcomes, but poses challenges in the long term, with a significant number of patients still developing moderate to severe visual impairments. Also, up to 38% of the patients developed another myopic MNV in the second eye within 10 years.

Furthermore, attention is directed towards myopic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and staphyloma-induced serous maculopathy, investigating clinical features, treatment response, and natural course. Understanding these complications is crucial for developing personalized treatment strategies.

Findings from surveys among ophthalmologists and myopic patients underscore the need for improved multidisciplinary care, consistent patient information, and better education regarding myopia and related symptoms. Only 56% of myopic participants were aware of alarming symptoms before their first acute event, indicating a lack of awareness and education.

This thesis provides a deep understanding of the complex landscape of myopia complications and the challenges in providing optimal care for myopic patients. It contributes to improving clinical practice and developing guidelines for personalized treatment approaches for myopia complications.