Refractive Errors Linked to Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Pediatric Population and Young Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

While previous studies have demonstrated significant eye problems in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), refractive errors have not been extensively studied in the context of ASDs. We systematically reviewed twenty-eight articles to assess whether refractive errors are linked with ASDs, and to determine the prevalence of refractive errors in children with ASDs. We found no significant association between ASDs and myopia or hyperopia, but a significantly increased risk of astigmatism was observed in children with ASDs. Pooled results of single-arm studies revealed a 14.1% prevalence of myopia, a 9.8% prevalence of hyperopia, and a 16.5% prevalence of astigmatism in children with ASDs. Future studies should incorporate a prospective design with age-matched comparison groups.