Ametropia is a general term describing refractive errors of the eye, i.e. abnormalities in the focusing of light rays on the retina. In a normal-sighted (emmetropic) eye, light rays focus precisely on the retina, enabling clear vision. In ametropia, the light rays focus in front of or behind the retina, causing blurred vision. The most common types of ametropia include: myopia (the rays focus in front of the retina), hyperopia (behind the retina) and astigmatism (the rays focus at different points). Ametropia can occur on its own or in combination with other conditions. It is usually caused by an abnormal shape of the eyeball or the curvature of the cornea. Diagnosis is based on a refraction test. Correction is provided by spectacles, contact lenses or refractive surgery. Early detection of ametropia in children is crucial for proper development of binocular vision and prevention of visual impairment.
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