Purpose: Scheimpflug imaging allows quantitative analysis of the width of the anterior chamber angle. We report the population-based distribution of the anterior chamber angle width using this noncontact imaging technique and investigate associated factors.
Methods: A population-based cross-sectional study was carried out in Germany. A comprehensive ophthalmologic examination including refraction, biometry, and Scheimpflug imaging was performed. Automated measurement of the anterior chamber angle was performed in each anterior chamber quadrant. Exclusion criteria were previous ocular surgery or inadequate image quality. Association analyses were carried out to determine independently associated systemic and ocular factors for anterior chamber angle width using a generalized estimating equation model.
Results: A total of 3014 subjects (48% female) with a mean age of 58.6 ± 10.4 years were included in this study. The mean anterior chamber angle width was 32.6° ± 5.5°. Statistical analysis revealed an independent association between a smaller anterior chamber angle and female sex, higher age, and more hyperopic refraction. When including biometric parameters, shallow anterior chamber depth, shorter axial length, higher central corneal thickness, and lower corneal power were independently associated with a narrower mean anterior chamber angle width.
Conclusions: These parameters are considered risk factors for angle-closure glaucoma.