AIM: To estimate the value of application computer optometry and retinoscopy optometry for objective refraction test in preschooler children.

METHODS: Ninety-eight preschooler children aged from 3 to 6 years old(196 eyes)of out-patient with abnormal refraction were chosen at random and examined. 10g/L atropine eye ointment was applied twice a day for four days. The fifth day, computer optometry and retinoscopy optometry were used separately. The results of optometry were analyzed statistically.

RESULTS: A comparison of the computer optometry and retinoscopy optometry results showed that: Forhyperopic refraction, the mean spherical equivalent refractions of computer optometry(2.70±2.75D)was less positive values than that of retinoscopy optometry(2.99±2.09 D). A matched-pairs t-test showed that there was a significant difference(P<0.05). For myopic refraction, the mean spherical equivalent refractions of computer optometry(-2.74±1.25D)was more negative values than that of retinoscopy(-2.35±2.18D). There was a significant difference(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the position of astigmatic axis between two methods of measurement(P>0.05). With regard to the astigmatism degree, there existed significant difference between the computer optometry and retinoscopy optometry results(P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: Computer optometry and retinoscopy optometry had their own merits and defects in measurement of objective refraction in preschooler children. They should complement each other to provide accurate evidence for vision correction in clinical work.