AIM: To investigate the relationship between types of cataract, density of cataract and high axial myopia.

METHODS: An observational case-control study of 300 eyes of ophthalmological outpatients, more than 40 years old, was undertaken. All the patients were divided into high myopia group(axial length≥26.0mm)(n=150 eyes)and control group(axial length: 21.0mm-24.0mm)(n=150 eyes). The cataract type and cataract density between the two groups were compared.

RESULTS: Nuclear cataract was more frequently encountered in high myopia group(P<0.05), and also nuclear cataract density was higher than control group. Mixed type cataract was more commonly found in control group(P<0.05). There was no statistical significant difference in cortical cataract and posterior subcapsular cataract between two groups(P>0.05). Nuclear density in high myopia group was higher than control group(P<0.01).

CONCLUSION: There is a correlation between nuclear cataract and high axial myopia. Cataract density in the high myopia group is higher.