Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What type of vision problem does a high hyperopic correction in both eyes suggest in a child?

1. Myopia

2. Astigmatism

3. Strabismus

4. Hyperopia

The correct answer is: Hyperopia

A high hyperopic correction in both eyes indicates that the child has a significant degree of hyperopia, or farsightedness. In hyperopia, light entering the eye is focused behind the retina, leading to difficulty seeing nearby objects clearly while distance vision may be relatively unaffected. Children with high levels of hyperopia may struggle with tasks that require near vision, such as reading or writing, and may experience symptoms like eye strain or fatigue. This type of correction is indicative of the need for lenses that help converge light more effectively onto the retina. The presence of a high hyperopic correction suggests that the child's eyes have difficulty in accommodating (focusing) adequately for near tasks, which means hyperopia is the main visual problem being addressed. In contrast, myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism (irregular corneal shape), and strabismus (misaligned eyes) are distinct conditions characterized by different visual needs and corrections. Understanding the type of vision problem indicated by a high hyperopic correction helps guide appropriate treatment options and interventions for the child’s visual development.