A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study of Autorefractometer and Streak Retinoscope Measurements against Subjective Acceptance in School-Age Children Attending a Tertiary Care Center (Code-T0350)

Introduction: Vision is crucial for a child’s development, learning, and communication. 
Uncorrected refractive errors pose a significant challenge to healthcare policymakers. School
based vision screening programs exist but often lack accurate data on visual impairment 
prevalence. Cycloplegic retinoscopy is the gold standard for measuring refractive errors, but it 
has limitations such as patient discomfort and additional costs. Autorefractometers have gained 
popularity due to ease of use and accessibility. This study aims to compare the accuracy and 
subjective acceptance of autorefractometry and streak retinoscopy in school-going children. 
Aims and Objectives: The study evaluates the accuracy of objective refraction using an 
autorefractometer and streak retinoscope, comparing their results with subjective acceptance. It 
also determines the prevalence and type of refractive errors among school-going children. 
Methods: This cross-sectional study is conducted at a tertiary healthcare center, including 150 
children (aged 7-16 years) with visual acuity <6/6. Participants undergo screening using 
Snellen’s chart, followed by objective refraction using an autorefractometer and streak 
retinoscopy, with subjective refraction for final acceptance. Data analysis is performed using 
SPSS 26.0, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. 
Results: Preliminary findings suggest that streak retinoscopy under cycloplegia provides more 
accurate and subjectively accepted refractive correction compared to autorefractometry. The 
study further examines the prevalence and patterns of ametropia in the sample population. 
Conclusion: Streak retinoscopy remains superior in subjective acceptance and accuracy 
compared to autorefractometry. Early detection and intervention of refractive errors in school 
children are crucial for their visual and academic development. 
Keywords: Autorefractometry, Streak Retinoscopy, Subjective Refraction, Refractive Errors, 
School Children, Visual Acuity.